More than 20 Indians are stranded in Russia, efforts underway for their early release: External Affairs Ministry

New Delhi (Uttam Hindu News): More than 20 Indians who had gone to work with the Russian army as support staff are stranded there and efforts are on for their early release, the External Affairs Ministry said on Thursday. The ministry reiterated that New Delhi is “deeply committed” to the welfare of all its citizens.

The comments come following reports that a group of Indian youths fell victim to agents who duped them into sending them to Russia under the false pretext of getting them jobs as security guards.

Addressing the weekly media briefing on Thursday, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “It is our understanding that there are more than 20 people who have gone to work as support staff or assistants in the Russian military. These are the people who have contacted us… We are trying our level best to ensure their release as soon as possible.”

The spokesperson also cited statements issued by the Ministry of External Affairs urging all Indian nationals in Russia to exercise appropriate caution and stay away from the conflict (with Ukraine).

Jaiswal told reporters, “We are trying our best… We are in regular touch with the Russian authorities both here in New Delhi and in Moscow. We are deeply committed to the welfare of all Indians.”

The ministry issued a statement on February 26, saying that many Indian nationals have already been released and that India is “committed to pursuing all relevant cases of its citizens for the prompt release of their citizens from the Russian military”. .

The statement also said there were “incorrect reports” in the media regarding Indians seeking help from the Russian Army for release.

When asked about India’s position on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Jaiswal reiterated that both sides should sit together and find a peaceful solution to the conflict.

He said, “Our position is well known. “We have said at the highest level that India wants discussions, diplomacy, continued engagement so that both sides can come together and find a solution for peace.”