The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a warning to citizens against joining the Russian army. Officials emphasized the security threats and shared information about efforts to ensure the safe return of affected citizens.
New Delhi: The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a stern warning to its citizens to refrain from joining the Russian army. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the risks and dangers associated with this action have been highlighted on several occasions over the past year. He clarified that it could be dangerous and illegal for any Indian citizen to participate in fighting in Russia.
Advisory Issued Following Media Reports
Recently, some media reports claimed that several Indians who traveled to Russia were allegedly forced into combat roles in Ukraine. Following these reports, the Ministry of External Affairs issued a public caution to its citizens. The statement urged Indian citizens to stay away from any kind of recruitment efforts or involvement in war activities.
Official Statement from the Ministry of External Affairs
In his statement, Randhir Jaiswal said that the matter has been raised with Russian authorities in both Delhi and Moscow. The Ministry requested that such practices be stopped and that our citizens be released safely. He informed that the Ministry is also in constant contact with the families of the affected Indian citizens. The MEA once again urged all citizens to stay away from any proposals to join the Russian army, as it poses a serious threat to their lives and safety.
Deportation of Indians who joined the Russian Army
According to reports, with the active efforts of the Indian government early this year, several Indian citizens who had joined the Russian army were granted leave. Many of these citizens have started returning to India. Authorities have been requested to ensure the safety, well-being, and swift repatriation of the remaining Indian citizens.
Potential Dangers and Risks
The Ministry of External Affairs stated that there are serious risks associated with joining the Russian army. These include the risk to life, the possibility of being injured in combat, legal complications, and arrest under international law. The Ministry clarified that no Indian citizen should join any foreign army to endanger their own safety.
Continuous Monitoring by the Government
The MEA informed that the Indian government is continuously monitoring this matter. Through engagement with Russian authorities, liaison with the families of affected citizens, and strategic dialogue, India is ensuring that no citizen remains in danger. The Ministry also stated that immediate action will be taken as soon as any information about new recruitment efforts is received.
India-Russia Bilateral Dialogue
The Ministry of External Affairs also informed that bilateral dialogue between India and Russia on this issue is ongoing. Russia has been requested not to involve Indian citizens in combat and to release them safely. This step is a priority for India to ensure its citizens do not face any dangerous situations abroad.
