Indian Nationals Coerced into Russian Military Service

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed the deaths of twelve Indian nationals serving in the Russian Armed Forces, with sixteen others missing. These individuals were reportedly lured to Russia with false job promises and coerced into military service, a situation that has led to diplomatic tensions between India and Russia. Among the deceased is Binil Babu from Kerala, who died in a drone attack, while another Indian national is recovering from injuries in a Moscow hospital. India has strongly taken up the matter with Russian authorities, demanding the early discharge and repatriation of all Indian nationals serving in the Russian military. Moscow denies any wrongdoing, but reports indicate that some Indians were forcibly recruited into the army. The Indian government continues to press for the safe return of its citizens, as diplomatic efforts persist to resolve the issue.