12 Indians killed fighting for Russia in Ukraine; 16 still missing: MEA
18 Indian nationals remain in active combat, and of these, 16 are classified as missing persons by Russian authorities
PTC Web Desk: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed the deaths of 12 Indian nationals who were allegedly misled into joining the Russian Army and subsequently lost their lives while fighting in Ukraine. Besides, 16 Indians are reported missing, with efforts ongoing to trace and repatriate them.
“We have been in constant contact with the Russian authorities to ensure the release and safe return of all Indian nationals who are currently trapped in Russia and involved in the conflict,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.
Providing an update on the situation, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “Of the 126 cases reported of Indians serving in the Russian armed forces, 96 have already returned to India after being discharged. However, 18 Indian nationals remain in active combat, and of these, 16 are classified as missing persons by Russian authorities. Unfortunately, 12 Indians have died in the conflict so far.”
The MEA had earlier raised concerns with Moscow after reports emerged of an Indian national from Kerala losing his life on the Russian frontlines.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also taken up the matter at the highest levels. During his talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in July last year, and again at the BRICS Summit in Kazan last October, PM Modi emphasised the need for an early discharge of Indian citizens caught up in the war.