India has urged Russia to release all Indian nationals currently serving in its military after the death of another citizen in Ukraine, raising the total number of fatalities to 10. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the death of an Indian national from Kerala, while another individual from the same state was injured in the ongoing conflict.
The deceased, identified as 31-year-old Binil Babu from Kuttanellur in Thrissur, was reportedly killed in combat with Ukrainian forces. The Indian government has yet to confirm the exact circumstances surrounding his death but expressed deep concern over the safety of Indian nationals enlisted in Russian military units.
The government has long raised concerns about the recruitment of Indians by the Russian military, particularly those serving in non-combat roles such as cooks and support staff. India has consistently called for the immediate release of these individuals, a matter which became more urgent after the deaths of at least nine other Indians in Russia’s war with Ukraine. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took up the issue with Russian President Vladimir Putin during two separate meetings last year.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed the tragic death, with spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stating, “We have learned of the unfortunate death of an Indian national from Kerala who had been recruited to serve in the Russian Army. Another individual, also from Kerala, has been injured and is receiving treatment in Moscow.”
The Indian government has emphasized that it has been in constant communication with Russian authorities both in Moscow and New Delhi, urging them to expedite the discharge of the remaining Indian nationals serving in Russia’s military. However, the exact number of Indian recruits still in service remains unclear.“
We are actively working with Russian authorities to ensure the swift repatriation of the deceased’s mortal remains to India. We have also requested the prompt repatriation of the injured individual,” Jaiswal added.
The Indian embassy in Moscow is in contact with the families of the individuals involved and is providing all necessary assistance. In the past, Indian officials have confirmed the release of 85 Indian nationals recruited by the Russian military, with efforts still ongoing for the release of around 20 others.
The issue of recruitment has been contentious, with the Indian government arguing that many citizens were misled or duped by unscrupulous agents. In response, India’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched an investigation, filing a criminal case against 19 individuals and entities linked to the recruitment scheme, and several arrests have been made.
The Russian government halted the recruitment of Indians into its military in April 2024, with the Russian embassy in New Delhi stating that efforts to discharge those serving are underway. The embassy also noted that those who volunteered for military service are being released in accordance with Russian regulations.
India’s push for the return of its nationals remains a critical diplomatic issue, as the war in Ukraine continues to affect citizens of both countries.
