MEA Seeking Discharge Of Around 20 Indians Stranded In Russian Army, Advises To Avoid War Zones

Days after indicating that the government was actively engaged in cases involving Indians seeking discharge from the Russian Army, the Ministry of External Affairs stated on Thursday (29 February) that around 20 individuals are currently stranded in the country.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasised that the government is making every effort for their prompt discharge and has advised Indians in Russia to avoid entering war zones or getting involved in challenging situations, as per a report by The Indian Express.

"We are in regular contact with Russian authorities both in New Delhi and Moscow," Jaiswal added.

Earlier in the week, the MEA had stated that India was actively pursuing all relevant cases of Indians seeking early discharge from the Russian army, with several individuals already discharged as a result.

The ministry's statements came in response to media reports suggesting that some Indians are working as support staff for the Russian army in the Ukraine conflict zone and have been compelled to fight alongside Russian soldiers.

In a press release on the MEA website, the ministry addressed the issue of Indians in the Russian army seeking discharge.

It emphasised that every such case brought to the attention of the Indian Embassy in Moscow has been strongly pursued with the Russian authorities, resulting in several discharges.

The ministry reiterated its commitment to actively engage with Russian authorities to secure the early discharge of Indian nationals from the Russian army.