📷 Image Credits: Moneycontrol
Russia expressed hope for a quick resolution to the issue regarding India’s demand for the return of Indians who were recruited as support workers into the Russian Army. Roman Babushkin, the Russian Ambassador, mentioned that the number of Indians recruited is insignificant in the context of the conflict and stated that Moscow never intended for them to be a part of the Russian Army. This statement came in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s strong emphasis on the early release and return home of Indian citizens serving as support staff in the Russian military.
Babushkin emphasized that politics should not be involved in this matter and clarified that the majority of Indians were hired under commercial agreements to earn money. He pointed out that the Indians were there for commercial reasons and not recruitment purposes, despite some working illegally without proper visas. The Russian envoy also mentioned that any compensation to the relatives of the deceased should happen as per the contractual obligations.
It was reported that Modi raised the issue with President Vladimir Putin during their informal conversation over dinner at the Russian president’s country home. Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra confirmed that the Russian side committed to an early discharge of all Indian nationals from the service of the Russian Army. Efforts will be made to expedite the return of these individuals back to India.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed deep concern regarding the matter of Indian nationals serving in the Russian Army, especially after two Indian nationals were killed in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The MEA demanded a verified stop to any further recruitment of Indian nationals by the Russian Army, emphasizing that it goes against the partnership between India and Russia.
Prior incidents, such as the deaths of Hyderabad resident Mohammed Asfan and Surat resident Hemal Ashwinbhai Mangua while serving with Russian troops, have raised significant alarm. The issue remains a focal point in the context of the 22nd India-Russia annual summit held between Modi and Putin, highlighting the necessity of addressing and resolving the concerns surrounding Indian nationals involved in the Russian Army.
