India on Wednesday (October 7, 2026) said it has sought an update from Russian authorities on the whereabouts of 69 Indian nationals who are reportedly working for the Russian Army.
Mr. Mr. The government’s efforts have led to the release of 139 Indian nationals so far, external affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at his regular media briefing. Jaiswal said a total of 259 Indian nationals were believed to have been recruited into the Russian armed forces.
Fifty-one Indians have died so far while serving on the frontlines of the conflict in Ukraine, according to information shared by authorities in the last few months. “Of these, through our efforts, so far, 139 Indian nationals have seen early discharge from the Russian Army,” Mr. Jaiswal said. “We are following up with the Russian authorities for updates on the whereabouts of 69 Indian nationals who are reportedly with the Russian Army,” he said. Jaiswal said there is a “grave danger” of taking up jobs in the Russian military. “I once again want to urge that Indian nationals must stay away from offers being made to join the Russian Army,” he said.
