MEA confirms 27 Indians serving in Russian Army

New Delhi, Sep 26: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday said that 27 Indian nationals are currently serving in the Russian army, even as it renewed its warning to citizens against taking up such offers.

“As per our information, 27 Indian nationals are presently serving in the Russian army. We are also in close touch with their family members in the matter,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told reporters. He reiterated India’s advisory cautioning citizens against seeking employment in the Russian military.

“We once again strongly urge all Indian nationals to stay away from the offers being made to serve in the Russian army as they are fraught with danger and risk to life,” Jaiswal said.

This is not the first time the issue has surfaced. Earlier this year, several reports emerged of Indians being lured to Russia with promises of lucrative jobs, only to find themselves recruited for frontline duties in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The Indian government has since been coordinating efforts to secure the release of those trapped and has engaged Russian authorities on the matter. The MEA has repeatedly advised Indian nationals to exercise caution and not be misled by fraudulent agents or online advertisements offering employment in Russia, particularly those linked to military roles.