The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on February 26 that several Indians serving as support staff in the Russian Army have been discharged following India’s demand. The MEA emphasized India’s commitment to actively pursuing the cases of Indian nationals for early discharge from the Russian Army, considering it a top priority.
Media reports had earlier indicated that Indian support staff in the Russian military were compelled to engage in conflict, including fighting alongside Russian soldiers along the border with Ukraine.
In response to these reports, the MEA issued a statement dismissing inaccurate information and assuring that every such case brought to the attention of the Indian embassy in Moscow had been strongly taken up with Russian authorities. Cases brought to the attention of the Ministry were also addressed with the Russian embassy in New Delhi.
The MEA highlighted the success of these efforts, stating, “Several Indians have already been discharged as a result.”
Last week, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had communicated that New Delhi was in touch with Moscow to secure the early discharge of Indians working as support staff to the Russian Army. He also urged Indian nationals to exercise caution and stay away from conflict zones in Ukraine.
The ongoing situation underscores India’s diplomatic efforts to ensure the well-being of its nationals amid geopolitical tensions.
