Trapped in War: Indians Lured into Russian Army

The Indian government has issued an urgent advisory warning its citizens against accepting any offers to join the Russian Army, following alarming reports of Indian nationals being deceived into fighting in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a statement on Thursday, highlighting the severe risks associated with such recruitment and urging Indian citizens to steer clear of these perilous offers.

According to the MEA, several Indian nationals who traveled to Russia on student or visitor visas in the past year have been coerced into combat roles in the Ukraine war. Reports indicate that these individuals were misled by agents promising lucrative jobs, such as opportunities in the construction sector, only to find themselves deployed to active conflict zones. The ministry emphasized that it has repeatedly cautioned against such deceptive schemes over the past year, underscoring the life-threatening dangers involved.

"We have seen disturbing reports of Indian nationals being recruited into the Russian army," the MEA stated. "The Government of India has consistently highlighted the risks and dangers of this course of action and strongly advises all citizens to avoid such offers." The ministry further confirmed that it has raised the issue with Russian authorities in both New Delhi and Moscow, demanding an end to this practice and the immediate release of affected Indian nationals.

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A recent report by a leading newspaper brought this issue into sharp focus, detailing the plight of two Indian men currently stranded in Donetsk, a region in eastern Ukraine recently captured by Russian forces. Speaking from the town of Selydove, the men alleged they were promised construction jobs but were instead thrust onto the battlefield. They claimed that at least 13 other Indian citizens are similarly trapped, facing dire circumstances after being misled by unscrupulous agents. These individuals reportedly traveled to Russia within the last six months, expecting employment opportunities, only to be betrayed and forced into combat roles.

The MEA has assured that it is actively engaging with the families of the affected individuals to provide support and facilitate their safe return. "We are in regular communication with the families of our citizens who have been impacted by this situation," the ministry noted. It also reiterated its commitment to resolving the issue through diplomatic channels, pressing Russian authorities to halt these deceptive recruitment practices.

This is not the first time concerns have been raised about Indian citizens being lured abroad under false pretenses. The government has repeatedly warned against fraudulent job offers, particularly those targeting vulnerable individuals seeking better economic prospects. The current situation in Russia, however, has escalated concerns due to the direct involvement of Indian nationals in an active war zone, putting their lives at significant risk.

The MEA’s advisory serves as a stark reminder for Indian citizens to exercise extreme caution when considering overseas job opportunities, especially those that seem too good to be true. "We strongly urge all Indian nationals to stay away from any offers to join the Russian army, as this is a course fraught with danger," the ministry reiterated. It advised citizens to verify the legitimacy of any job offer and consult with relevant authorities before traveling abroad for employment.

As the situation unfolds, the Indian government continues to work tirelessly to secure the safety and release of its citizens trapped in this dangerous predicament, while urging the public to remain vigilant against such deceptive and life-threatening schemes.

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