External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Thursday said he raised the issue of Indian nationals recruited into the Russian armed forces during his meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Moscow.
“I took up the issue of Indians serving in the Russian Army. While many have been released, some cases remain pending, and a few persons are still missing. We hope the Russian side will expeditiously resolve these matters,” Jaishankar stated at a joint media briefing with Lavrov.
India Engages Moscow at Multiple Levels
New Delhi continues to engage with Russian authorities, including the office of President Vladimir Putin, to secure the safety, well-being, and early discharge of Indian nationals serving in Russia.
The Indian government’s consistent efforts led to the discharge of most Indian nationals from the Russian armed forces, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) earlier confirmed.
However, it stressed that the authorities are still awaiting updates on the remaining individuals.
The Indian Embassy and consulates in Russia have actively supported the return of discharged personnel. Officials helped Indian nationals with travel documents and air tickets to facilitate their journey back home.
Government Ensures Safety and Repatriation
The Indian government has also coordinated the repatriation of the mortal remains of seven Indian nationals who lost their lives in the conflict. In two cases, families consented to cremation in Russia.
The Minister of State for External Affairs had earlier told Parliament that the Government gives the highest priority to the safety, security, and well-being of all Indian nationals abroad and takes appropriate action whenever it receives requests for assistance.
Also Read: India’s Oil Imports from US Rising; Not Biggest Buyer Of Russian Oil: EAM Jaishankar
To read more such news, download Bharat Express news apps
