One Indian killed and another injured in Russian Army, government responds
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An Indian national has reportedly been killed, and another is undergoing treatment for injuries sustained while serving in the Russian army, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Tuesday.
Both individuals hailed from Kerala.
India has taken up the matter with Russian authorities in Moscow and the Russian Embassy in New Delhi, reiterating demands for the immediate release of Indian nationals serving in the Russian army.
"We are coordinating with Russian officials to ensure the prompt transportation of the deceased's remains to India," stated the MEA. "Additionally, we have sought the early discharge and repatriation of the injured individual."
The case sheds light on ongoing concerns about Indian nationals being recruited into the Russian army under questionable circumstances. Authorities in Kerala arrested four individuals in May, suspected of being part of a human trafficking network that lured young men to Russia with false promises of lucrative jobs or university admissions. These individuals were later forced to participate in the conflict with Ukraine.
Following previous incidents involving Indian casualties in the war, the Indian government urged Russia to halt the recruitment of Indian nationals and warned citizens to exercise caution when seeking employment in Russia.
In September, the MEA revealed that approximately 45 Indian nationals had been discharged from the Russian army, with efforts underway to secure the release of an additional 50 individuals.