The Government of India officially acknowledged on Friday that several Indian citizens are embroiled in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The government is coordinating with Russian authorities to facilitate the release of Indians who have allegedly been deceived into military service.
Recent reports indicate that several Indians were promised support roles but were later enlisted in the Russian army, with misleading translations of documents and unexpected military training.
"We are aware that a few Indian nationals have signed up for support jobs with the Russian army. The Indian Embassy has regularly taken up this matter with the relevant Russian authorities for their early discharge. We urge all Indian nationals to exercise due caution and stay away from this conflict," stated Randhir Jaiswal, external affairs spokesperson, in a released statement today.
Concerns have risen as the family of one individual, Sufiyan from Hyderabad, along with AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi, sought the intervention of the Centre and the External Affairs ministry, NDTV reported. They are calling for the safe evacuation of trapped Indian nationals and strict actions against the fraudulent agents responsible for their plight.
According to the report, Imran, Sufiyan's brother, disclosed deceptive tactics employed by agents associated with Faisal Khan, who operates a YouTube channel named 'Baba Vlogs'. The unsuspecting individuals were allegedly promised support roles but were eventually enlisted in the Russian army.
With nine Indian men reportedly within the Ukrainian borders, facing danger and injuries, distressed families are seeking assistance from the Centre. Owaisi has written to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, requesting intervention to bring back the affected Indians.
The Russia-Ukraine conflict, now in its third year, continues to raise concerns about the safety and well-being of individuals caught up amid the ongoing hostilities.