The Government of India has issued a fresh advisory urging Indian nationals to refrain from joining the Russian Armed Forces, citing serious risks to their safety and well-being.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in a statement issued on September 30, said the government has repeatedly highlighted over the past two years the dangers associated with Indian citizens being recruited into the Russian military. It also advised Indians seeking employment opportunities abroad to exercise extreme caution and avoid offers made by unverified agents or non-governmental entities.
The ministry said it had come across numerous instances where individuals willingly sought opportunities to join the Russian Armed Forces in the expectation of receiving monetary benefits and later securing release with the assistance of the Indian government. The MEA described this as a “dangerous and life-threatening path” and strongly discouraged such actions.
The government also highlighted cases where individuals approached Indian authorities to voluntarily give up their Indian citizenship, obtain Russian passports and subsequently join the Russian Armed Forces. Some had already taken such steps without consulting Indian authorities after being attracted by temporary financial benefits.
The MEA urged citizens to understand the gravity of such decisions and the mortal dangers involved.
The government said it remains in continuous contact with Russia to ensure the safety and well-being of Indian citizens currently serving in its armed forces and facilitate their earliest possible return to India.
