New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Moscow next week is expected to address the pressing issue of Indian nationals who were “misled” into serving in the Russian army, foreign secretary Vinay Kwatra said on Friday (July 5). The early discharge of these individuals will be a key topic of discussion during the prime minister’s visit, news agency Reuters reported.
In recent months, a disturbing trend has come to light, where numerous Indians have been deceived with promises of high-paying jobs or educational opportunities in Russia, only to be coerced into fighting against Ukraine. Indian police have arrested four individuals linked to a human trafficking network in connection with these cases in May. Despite repeated requests from Reuters, Moscow has not responded to comments on the matter.
The situation has resulted in the deaths of at least four Indian nationals, prompting the Indian government to call for an immediate end to such recruitment and the quick release of Indians fighting in the Russian army. It is estimated that between 30 and 40 Indian citizens may be currently serving in the Russian army, Kwatra said during a media briefing.
Further, the foreign secretary has assured that all efforts are being made to ensure the return of Indian nationals. “All efforts have been made that Indian nationals return as soon as possible,” Kawatra said, adding that so far, ten Indians have been brought back home.
India’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict has been to advocate for an end to the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy, rather than condemning Russia outright. This approach is likely influenced by the close relationship between India and Russia that has spanned decades.
Other South Asian nations, such as Sri Lanka and Nepal, have also taken steps to prevent their citizens from being duped into joining the Russian army. Sri Lanka has tightened controls, and Nepal reported that several of its citizens have been illegally recruited, with many still missing.
“Trade remains imbalanced, which is a matter of priority in our discussions with the Russian side,” Kwatra was quoted as saying by Reuters while he added that India hopes to “correct” this by pushing exports across sectors including farm, technology, pharmaceuticals and services.
On questions related to Modi’s visit coinciding with the July 9-11 NATO summit in Washington, Kwatra said: “The bilateral visit this time is just a scheduling priority that we have undertaken and that’s what it is.”
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Russia on July 8 and 9 will include talks with President Vladimir Putin. The visit will also cover other aspects of the India-Russia relationship, including regional and global issues of mutual interest.
