Indians Fighting in Ukraine War: A Grim Update
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India recently released an update on the status of Indian nationals serving in the Russian army amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The situation is grave, with a significant number of casualties and missing personnel reported.
The MEA’s Report: Missing and Deceased
The MEA spokesperson revealed that of the 126 reported cases of Indian citizens involved, 96 have returned to India and have been discharged from the Russian Armed Forces. However, the fate of 16 out of the remaining 18 is currently unknown; they are categorized as ‘missing’ by the Russian government. Tragically, 12 Indian nationals have died while serving in the Russian military.
Kerala’s Loss: A Family’s Grief
The MEA confirmed the death of Binil TB from Kerala, whose passing was previously reported by relatives. The MEA spokesperson expressed condolences to his family and stated that efforts are underway to repatriate his remains. Another individual from Kerala is currently receiving medical treatment in Moscow.
Government Actions and Diplomatic Efforts
India has formally requested Russia to release all Indian nationals recruited by the Russian military. This urgent plea follows the recent deaths and the concerning number of missing individuals. The matter has been directly addressed with the Russian authorities in Moscow, as well as the Russian embassy in New Delhi. These diplomatic efforts are ongoing.
Previous Diplomatic Engagements
The issue of Indian nationals serving in the Russian army was previously raised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow last July. The Prime Minister stressed the need for their early discharge.
Ongoing Concerns and Future Actions
The situation remains deeply concerning. The large number of missing persons highlights the urgent need for increased transparency and cooperation from the Russian government. The MEA’s continuous engagement with Russian authorities is vital for securing the release of those remaining in the conflict zone, and ensuring the repatriation of the deceased.
Global Implications and Public Awareness
This situation underscores the complexities of international conflicts and the potential risks faced by citizens who find themselves involved in foreign military engagements. The government’s efforts to secure the safe return of its nationals deserve public recognition, and ongoing awareness of the issue is critical in mitigating future incidents. The international community’s attention remains vital to press for the resolution of this humanitarian crisis and to ensuring accountability.
