24 Indians still with Russian army, says MEA
The Ministry of External Affairs reports that 24 Indian citizens remain in the Russian army, despite ongoing efforts to secure their release. While 139 individuals have been repatriated, the government continues to warn citizens against fraudulent job offers that lead to military recruitment.
Why it matters
This involves human rights, international diplomacy, and the safety of migrant workers in conflict zones.
Around 24 Indian citizens who were hired through fraudulent and non-transparent means continue to serve with the Russian army as the war in Ukraine persists, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday (July 31, 2026).
Official Spokesperson of the MEA Randhir Jaiswal stated that the Ministry has been consistently following up on the issue of Indians in the Russian army. He said India continues to focus on creating reliable and secure channels for the mobility of various segments of its blue-collar workforce.
“We have been following up with the Russian side for the release of the remaining Indian nationals with the Russian army. Our efforts have led to the release of 139 Indian nationals so far,” Mr. Jaiswal said during a bi-weekly briefing.
In May, the Centre informed the Supreme Court that 49 Indians had died while serving with the Russian army in the Ukraine conflict.
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