Fri Jan 17 13:28:40 UTC 2025: ## 12 Indian Nationals Dead, 16 Missing After Being Misled Into Fighting for Russia in Ukraine

**NEW DELHI** – The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed today that 12 Indian nationals have died fighting for the Russian army in Ukraine after being lured into the conflict. A further 16 are currently missing. These individuals are among 126 Indians who were allegedly trafficked to Russia under false pretenses, primarily through promises of lucrative jobs or university admission.

The MEA stated that 96 of the 126 Indians have been returned to India after their discharge from the Russian armed forces. Eighteen remain in Russia, with the whereabouts of 16 unknown; Russian authorities have classified them as missing persons. The remaining two are still actively engaged in combat.

The Indian government has been actively engaging with Russian authorities to secure the release and repatriation of all its citizens trapped in the conflict. Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the issue directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin in July and October of last year, receiving assurances that Russia would discharge any Indian national who had been misled.

Investigations revealed a human trafficking network operating across India, utilizing social media and local agents to recruit victims. Once in Russia, the victims’ passports were confiscated, and they were forcibly inducted into military service. Indian police have already arrested at least four individuals suspected of involvement in this operation.

The MEA has condemned the actions of the recruiters, vowing to pursue legal action against those responsible. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar previously stated that the government would take the “toughest legal action” against those who trafficked Indian citizens. The situation highlights a significant human trafficking issue and the ongoing challenges faced by India in protecting its citizens abroad.

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