New Delhi: India on Tuesday demanded that Russia release all Indian nationals serving in its military in the ongoing war with Ukraine.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) raised serious concerns following the recent death of another person, taking the number of deceased Indians to 10.
“We have learnt of the unfortunate death of an Indian national from Kerala who had apparently been recruited to serve in the Russian Army. Another Indian national from Kerala, who was similarly recruited, has been injured and is receiving treatment in a hospital in Moscow,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.
“We are working with the Russian authorities for early transportation of the mortal remains to India. We have also sought the early discharge and repatriation to India of the injured person,” Jaiswal added.
According to media reports, 31-year-old Binil Babu, a native of Kuttanellur in Thrissur district, was killed in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
“The matter has been strongly taken up with the Russian authorities in Moscow as well as with the Russian Embassy in New Delhi today. We have also reiterated our demand for the early discharge of the remaining Indian nationals,” MEA stated.
India have repeatedly called for the release of Indians serving in different capacities with Russian military units. Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the matter with Russian President Vladimir Putin at two meetings last year.
Government officials said in October that 85 Indian nationals recruited by the Russian military had been discharged, and that authorities were working for the release of another 20 citizens.
