Government Awaits Release of 69 Indians from Russian Army

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar informed the Lok Sabha about ongoing efforts to secure the release of 69 Indians recruited into the Russian army. Many were allegedly misled into service. Prime Minister Modi has discussed the issue with Russian President Putin, who assured the release of affected nationals.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday revealed that the government is waiting for the release of 69 Indians who were recruited into the Russian army, amidst concerns that they were misled.

Addressing the Lok Sabha, Jaishankar highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting that the government is fervently handling the cases of Indian nationals being recruited into the Russian army and cyber crime trafficking to Southeast Asia.

According to Jaishankar, out of 91 total cases, eight Indians have died, 14 have been discharged or sent back, and the release of 69 is pending. The minister conveyed that he has repeatedly brought up this matter with the Russian foreign minister, and Prime Minister Modi also discussed it with President Putin recently.

Jaishankar stated that Russian authorities claim these nationals entered into service contracts, a notion India contests. The prime minister secured assurances from Putin that any Indian in the Russian army would be discharged and released.

(With inputs from agencies.)