Fri Nov 07 20:46:26 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text and a news article based on it:

Summary:

On November 7, 2025, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced that the number of Indian nationals serving in the Russian Army has increased to 44. The MEA has taken up the issue with Russian authorities, urging them to stop recruiting Indians and to release those currently serving. The Indian government is also in contact with the families of those recruited. Reports indicate some Indians were coerced into joining, even those on student or business visas. The Indian government has repeatedly warned citizens about the dangers of enlisting in the Russian Army, yet people continue to do so. According to official data, the number of Indians recruited by the Russian military is now close to 170, with 96 being discharged and 16 listed as missing. Sadly, 12 Indians have died fighting on the frontlines in Ukraine.

News Article:

India Urges Russia to Halt Recruitment of Nationals into Army; Number Rises to 44

New Delhi – November 8, 2025 – The Indian government has expressed serious concern over the increasing number of Indian nationals being recruited into the Russian Army. According to a statement released by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Friday, November 7, 2025, at least 44 Indians are currently serving in the Russian military.

The MEA stated that it has formally raised the issue with Moscow, urging Russian authorities to cease recruiting Indian citizens and to release those currently enlisted “at the earliest.”

“We are in touch with the Russian side. We are also in touch with the families of these people and giving them an update on the matter,” said Mr. Jaiswal during his weekly press briefing.

Reports have emerged suggesting some Indians, including those holding student and business visas, have been compelled to join Russian military units, potentially deployed to frontlines in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The Indian government has repeatedly requested Russia to release all Indian nationals working as support staff with the Russian military. The issue was also reportedly raised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Russia last year.

The MEA spokesperson reiterated the government’s warning to Indian citizens, cautioning them against accepting offers to serve in the Russian Army, citing the inherent dangers. “We have said this so many times…you must be aware of the dangers that are there once you sign up for these jobs,” Mr. Jaiswal stated.

According to official figures, the number of Indians recruited by the Russian military is now close to 170. Of these, 96 have been discharged, while 16 are listed as missing. Tragically, at least 12 Indian nationals have been killed while fighting in Ukraine. The Indian government continues to advise citizens to avoid such recruitment offers and remains in dialogue with Russia to resolve the situation.

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