New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that 27 Indian nationals are currently serving in the Russian Army, warning citizens against falling prey to recruitment offers that could put their lives at risk.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the government is in close touch with the families of those affected and has raised the matter with Russian authorities, seeking the immediate release of the individuals. He stressed that offers of employment that lead to military involvement in conflict zones are extremely dangerous and urged Indians to avoid them.

Reports indicate that many of the affected individuals may have been lured into joining under false promises of jobs or educational opportunities. In previous months, India successfully facilitated the repatriation of nearly 100 citizens who had been recruited into Russian forces. However, several others remain unaccounted for, with families alleging coercion and human trafficking by intermediaries.

The Indian government has issued multiple advisories warning against such offers, highlighting cases where individuals were forced into combat roles despite initially seeking other employment opportunities. One recent case involved a student from Uttarakhand who traveled to Russia for higher studies but was reportedly drafted into the military soon after.

New Delhi has reiterated that it is actively engaging Moscow through diplomatic channels to secure the release of the remaining Indians and prevent further recruitment. Authorities have also cautioned that any promises of lucrative work opportunities in Russia could be misleading and put individuals in life-threatening situations.

The MEA has assured families that it is pursuing all possible measures to bring those serving in the Russian Army back home safely.