The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday, September 11, issued a strong advisory urging Indian nationals not to join the Russian armed forces, cautioning that doing so poses serious risks. The warning came amid reports that several Indians who had travelled to Moscow were being compelled into combat roles in the ongoing Ukraine conflict.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, responding to media queries, confirmed that New Delhi had raised the issue with Russian authorities both in Moscow and Delhi. “We have seen reports about Indian nationals having been recruited recently into the Russian army. The Government has, on several occasions over the past year, underlined the dangers in such actions and cautioned Indian citizens accordingly,” he said.

He further added that India has formally requested Russia to end this practice and ensure the release of Indians already recruited. “We are also in touch with the families of the affected citizens,” Jaiswal noted. Reiterating the government’s stance, he stressed: “We once again strongly urge all Indian nationals to stay away from any offers to join the Russian army as this is a course fraught with danger.”

This is not the first time the issue has surfaced. On July 24, 2025, the MEA informed Parliament that 127 Indians were serving in the Russian armed forces. Following sustained diplomatic engagement, 98 of them were released from service. However, 13 remained, with Moscow reporting that 12 were missing in action.