MEA Warns Indians Against Joining Russian Army, Flags ‘Fraught with Danger’ Risks

New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a fresh advisory cautioning Indian nationals against enlisting in the Russian army, stressing that such a move is “fraught with danger.”

The warning follows reports that several Indians who travelled to Moscow were allegedly coerced into combat roles in Ukraine.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, responding to media queries, said:
“We have seen reports about Indian nationals having been recruited recently into the Russian army. Government has on several occasions over the past one year underlined the risks and dangers inherent in this course of action and cautioned Indian citizens accordingly.”

He further confirmed that India has taken up the issue with Moscow at multiple levels. “We have also taken up the matter with Russian authorities, both in Delhi and Moscow, asking that this practice be ended and that our nationals be released. We are also in touch with the families of the affected Indian citizens,” Jaiswal said.

Reiterating the government’s stand, he urged: “We once again strongly urge all Indian nationals to stay away from any offers to join the Russian army as this is a course fraught with danger.”