Indian Nationals Enlisted by Russian Army to Fight in Ukraine

Approximately 100 Indian nationals have been recruited by the Russian Army at its Moscow recruitment centre in the past year, according to disclosures from an official within the Russian Ministry of Defence.

These recruits, labelled as “army security helpers,” underwent a rigorous selection process, including psychometric assessments, before being offered contracts outlining associated risks, with no upfront monetary charges.

The contractual terms require a minimum one-year service period, with no exit permitted before six months. Roles assigned to these recruits vary, including battlefield duties and support tasks such as portering.

Recruits’ consent was paramount, with extensive background checks conducted to mitigate espionage-related risks.

Compensation included a monthly salary of approximately €2,290, with additional benefits of €590. Despite assurances, recent reports indicate forced involvement of Indian recruits in combat activities along the Russia-Ukraine border.

Individuals from regions such as Uttar Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Karnataka allege being misled and coerced into frontline duties, with appeals for assistance seemingly unanswered.

In response, the Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has formally requested Russian authorities, specifically the Russian Ministry of Defence, to allow Indian citizens to break contractual obligations within the Russian armed forces.

The Indian Embassy has actively engaged with relevant Russian authorities to expedite the release of Indian nationals serving as “auxiliary personnel” within the Russian military.

Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated the government’s commitment to citizens’ safety amidst the conflict.

Disturbing accounts from local media outlets reveal Indian nationals coerced into combat roles within conflict zones such as Mariupol and Donetsk.

Tragically, at least one Indian citizen has lost their life, highlighting the grave risks faced.

Recruitment malpractices originating from agents in Dubai deceived individuals with promises of lucrative salaries and Russian citizenship, only to thrust them into frontline military service upon arrival in Moscow.

Over the past 18 months, Russia has actively recruited foreign nationals from various countries, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan.

The rationale behind Russia’s enlistment of foreign nationals for the Ukraine conflict stems from the belief that their casualties evoke less emotional response within Russia compared to those involving Russian nationals.

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Read more: Nepali Mercenaries: Trapped in Russia’s War

The stories of those who managed to escape paint a grim picture of exploitation and betrayal.

Despite promises of adequate training and support, Nepali recruits were often ill-equipped and inadequately prepared for the realities of warfare.

Language barriers further compounded their struggles, leaving many unable to communicate effectively with Russian officers or navigate their surroundings safely.

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