India and Russia Collaborate for Early Discharge of Indian Nationals from Russian Army

In a recent development, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that efforts are underway to secure the early discharge of approximately 50 Indian nationals currently serving in the Russian armed forces. This move follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Moscow, where he directly addressed the issue with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal provided insights during his weekly media briefing, stating, “We are aware of about 50 Indian nationals who currently wish to end their employment in the Russian armed forces.” The request for discharge has come from either the individuals themselves or their concerned family members, prompting the MEA to take swift action.

The MEA has been actively engaging with Russian authorities at multiple levels, including the leadership level, to expedite the process. During his visit on July 8-9, Prime Minister Modi raised the issue with President Putin, who responded positively. Both nations are now working collaboratively to ensure the early discharge of these Indian nationals.

This situation has been a matter of “utmost concern” for the Indian government. Last month, the MEA highlighted the urgency of the matter and called for immediate action from Moscow. The issue gained further prominence after the deaths of two Indian nationals serving in the Russian Army were reported in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, bringing the total number of such deaths to four.

On June 11, the MEA reported the tragic deaths of two Indian nationals who were recruited by the Russian Army and had recently been killed in the conflict. This incident prompted the Indian government to demand a “verified stop” to further recruitment of Indian nationals by the Russian Army. The MEA emphasized that such activities were not in line with the spirit of the India-Russia partnership.

In February, Hemal Ashwinbhai Mangua, a 23-year-old from Surat, Gujarat, died in a Ukrainian air strike while serving as a “security helper” in the Donetsk region. A month later, Mohammed Asfan, a 30-year-old resident of Hyderabad, succumbed to injuries sustained while serving on the frontlines with Russian troops in Ukraine.

The deaths of these young men have intensified the Indian government’s efforts to ensure the safety of its citizens and prevent further recruitment into foreign conflicts. The MEA’s strong stance and the Prime Minister’s direct intervention signify the importance India places on the welfare of its nationals abroad.

The cooperation between India and Russia in this matter highlights the diplomatic efforts being made to resolve the issue amicably and swiftly. The positive response from the Russian side is a step towards ensuring the safe return of Indian nationals wishing to leave the Russian armed forces.

As the situation unfolds, the MEA continues to monitor developments closely, aiming for a resolution that safeguards the interests and lives of Indian citizens. The early discharge of these individuals from the Russian armed forces remains a priority, and both nations are committed to achieving this goal in the spirit of their longstanding partnership.