India Urges Russia to Halt Military Recruitment Amidst Rising Number of Nationals in Russian Army

India's Firm Stance on Nationals in Russian Military

New Delhi, November 7, 2025 – India has officially confirmed that the number of its citizens serving in the Russian army has risen to 44, prompting a renewed and urgent call to Moscow for their immediate release and a halt to further recruitment. This announcement was made by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a weekly media briefing.

Rising Concerns and Diplomatic Engagements

The confirmed figure of 44 Indian nationals marks a notable increase from the 27 reported in September. The MEA has reiterated that it has 'once again taken up the matter with the Russian authorities to have them released at the earliest, as also to put an end to this practice.' Diplomatic efforts to address this issue have been ongoing, with the matter previously raised at the highest levels, including by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Russia last year. India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also discussed the matter with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko in New Delhi, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

Deceptive Recruitment and Inherent Dangers

Many of the Indian nationals are reported to have been misled or coerced into joining the Russian military. Accounts suggest they were initially promised civilian jobs, such as security guards or warehouse workers, but were subsequently pressured into signing military contracts and deployed to the frontlines in Ukraine. The Indian government has consistently issued strong advisories, warning its citizens against accepting offers to join the Russian army, emphasizing that such recruitment is 'fraught with danger to life.' In response to these deceptive practices, Indian law enforcement agencies have initiated action against individuals and networks suspected of luring Indians into these risky endeavors.

Families' Plight and Russia's Position

The situation has caused significant distress among the families of those recruited, with many protesting in New Delhi and demanding government intervention for the safe return of their relatives. Some families have reported losing contact with their loved ones, while others have shared harrowing accounts of injuries and lack of medical aid. While India continues to press for the release of its nationals, Russian authorities have maintained that these individuals entered into contracts for service with the Russian army. The Russian embassy has denied engaging in any 'public or obscure campaigns, more so in fraudulent schemes to recruit the Indian nationals for military service in Russia.' Despite these assurances, reports indicate that over 100 Indians have joined the Russian army since late 2023, with 96 reportedly discharged, 16 listed as missing, and at least 12 confirmed deaths on the frontlines.

Continued Efforts for Repatriation

The Indian government remains in close contact with both Russian authorities and the families of the affected individuals, providing updates on the ongoing efforts. This diplomatic push comes ahead of an anticipated visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin to India in December, where the issue is expected to be a key point of discussion. India's consistent message underscores the severe risks involved and its commitment to securing the safe return of its citizens.