India Demands Urgent Release of Nationals from Russian Armed Forces

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced steps for the early discharge of Indian nationals from Russia's armed forces. PM Modi reaffirmed the need during a visit to Russia. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi called for proactive measures to address the rising number of Indians in foreign militaries.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced on Friday that the government has addressed the issue of early discharge of Indian nationals from the Russian armed forces with Moscow authorities. So far, 13 Indian nationals have been released. His comment came in response to Congress MP Adoor Prakash's query in the Lok Sabha concerning Indian nationals serving in the Russian army.

Jaishankar explained that the government is advocating for the early discharge and ensuring the safety and well-being of these individuals. "The early release of Indian nationals and their safety and well-being have been strongly pursued with relevant Russian authorities," he said.

While the exact number of Indian nationals in Russian armed forces is unknown, information indicates that 13 have been released, with another 66 seeking discharge. Jaishankar noted that during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia in July 2024, PM Modi emphasized the urgent need for their release and that legal action has been taken against those misleading Indian nationals into such services. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi urged the government to prevent such instances proactively, emphasizing the rising number of Indians serving in foreign armies due to a lack of employment opportunities in India.