Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Russia has clarified its position regarding the recruitment of Indian nationals into its army, stating that the enlistment of Indians as support staff was purely a commercial matter and not driven by any governmental intent. Roman Babushkin, Russia’s Charge d’affaires, addressed the issue during a media briefing, emphasizing that Russia never intended for Indians to join its military ranks.
“We are on the same side with the Indian government on the issue… We hope that the issue will be resolved soon,” Babushkin said, responding to concerns raised by India. He stressed that the matter should not be politicized and highlighted that the recruitment of Indians was conducted under commercial agreements, primarily as the individuals sought to earn money.
This statement follows a promise by Russia to ensure the early release and return of Indian nationals working as support staff in the Russian military. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had strongly raised this issue with President Vladimir Putin during informal talks at Putin’s dacha on Monday evening.
Babushkin noted that the number of Indians involved is relatively small and insignificant in the broader context of the conflict. He pointed out that many of these individuals entered Russia on tourist visas and are working illegally. “Most of the Indians recruited as support staff are working illegally as they do not have appropriate visas to work,” he said.
Regarding compensation and citizenship for the families of those killed in the conflict, Babushkin stated that such provisions should be honored as per contractual obligations.
Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra, during his visit to Moscow, confirmed that the Russian side promised the early discharge of all Indian nationals from the service of the Russian Army. This assurance was given after India expressed deep concern over the involvement of its nationals in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, which has already resulted in the deaths of four Indians.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had earlier demanded a “verified stop” to any further recruitment of Indian nationals by the Russian Army, describing such activities as inconsistent with the partnership between India and Russia.
PM Modi’s recent two-day visit to Russia aimed to strengthen bilateral ties and included discussions on various issues of mutual interest, culminating in the 22nd India-Russia annual summit with President Putin.
