The Ministry of External Affairs stated  that 16 Indian nationals recruited by the Russian Army to fight in Ukraine are missing, while 12 have been killed so far.

This news follows the death of a Kerala-based man and the injury of another during the Russia-Ukraine conflict. India has also raised concerns and demanded the early release of all Indians from Russia.

“As of today, there have been 126 cases of Indian nationals serving in the Russian Army. Of these 126 cases, 96 people have returned to India and been discharged from the Russian Armed Forces. 18 Indian nationals remain in the Russian Army, and the whereabouts of 16 individuals are not known,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a briefing 

Jaiswal added that Russia has categorized the 16 Indian nationals as “missing,” and India is seeking their early release and repatriation. At least 12 Indian nationals have been killed while fighting for the Russian Army in Ukraine.

The Ministry also extended its condolences for the death of Kerala man Binil Babu, who was killed during the Ukraine conflict, and stated that the Indian embassy is in touch with Russian authorities for the repatriation of his mortal remains. Another Indian national, Jain T.K., is receiving treatment in Moscow and is expected to return to India once his treatment is completed.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday confirmed that the embassy in Moscow is in touch with the families of the two Indians and is extending all possible assistance. “We have learned of the unfortunate death of an Indian national from Kerala, who had apparently been recruited to serve in the Russian Army,” Jaiswal said.