India Says More Than 200 Citizens Recruited by Russia to Fight in Ukraine, 26 Killed
Over 200 Indian citizens have been recruited by Russia to fight in the ongoing war in Ukraine. Many were lured under false job promises before being sent to the frontlines. Governments across South Asia have now issued warnings about these deceptive recruitment schemes.
Russian recruiters have targeted young men in India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka with offers of high-paying jobs. Instead, they are pressured into signing military contracts written in Russian. Once signed, they are deployed to combat zones in Ukraine, often with little training or preparation.
At least 26 Indian nationals have already been killed in the conflict, while seven others remain missing. In response, the Indian government has repatriated over 100 citizens and continues negotiations to bring back around 50 more.
The issue extends beyond South Asia. Reports indicate that South Africans make up the largest group of African fighters recruited by Russia, with many allegedly deceived into joining the war in Donbas. Ukraine claims to have captured 136 foreign fighters from 37 countries, including two Colombians recently taken prisoner in Pokrovsk.
Russia’s foreign recruitment efforts also draw heavily from North Korea, Central Asian nations, and other African countries. These fighters are often used to bolster Russian forces amid heavy losses.
The Indian, Nepalese, and Sri Lankan governments have all warned their citizens against falling for Russian job scams linked to the war. With dozens already dead or missing, repatriation efforts remain a priority. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to detain foreign fighters, highlighting the global reach of Russia’s recruitment tactics.
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