'Offer Fraught With Danger To Life': MEA Cautions Indians Against Joining Russian Army

Last Updated:November 07, 2025, 19:21 IST

Jaiswal confirmed that at least 44 Indian nationals are currently serving in the Russian military, which is engaged in its conflict in Ukraine

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. (PTI file photo)

India on Friday warned that Indian nationals should avoid offers to join the Russian army, warning that such opportunities were “fraught with danger" and posed serious risks to life.

At the weekly Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) press briefing, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the ministry had recently received information about several Indian nationals being recruited into the Russian military. He added that India had raised the matter with Russian authorities, seeking the release of those recruited and calling for an end to such practices.

Jaiswal reiterated the government’s message to citizens not to accept offers to join the Russian army, as doing so carries extreme risks to life and safety.

“We once again take this opportunity to convey to all that one should stay away from offers being made to serve in the Russian army because it is an offer that is fraught with danger to life and there’s risk to life," he said.

Jaiswal confirmed that at least 44 Indian nationals are currently serving in the Russian military, which is engaged in its conflict in Ukraine. He said the MEA is in contact with both Russian authorities and the families of those serving.

“We are in touch with the Russian side. We are also in touch with the families of these people and giving them an update on the matter," he added.

Reports indicate that more than 150 Indians have joined the Russian army since late 2023. While Russian law allows foreign nationals to enlist under certain rules, India has repeatedly raised concerns about the safety of its citizens.

Official figures show that among those recruited, 12 Indians have died in combat, 96 have been discharged, and 16 remain missing. Some reports also suggest that Indians on student or business visas were pressured to join Russian military units, including front-line roles. India has requested the release of all Indians serving in support positions, such as cooks and helpers.

The issue has been discussed at the highest levels. In July 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the matter with President Vladimir Putin during his visit to Moscow for the annual India-Russia summit. Putin is expected to visit India next month for this year’s summit.

(With inputs from agencies)

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