The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday advised Indian nationals travelling to Russia to exercise extreme caution while pursuing employment opportunities and warned them against accepting offers to join the Russian armed forces.
The advisory comes amid continued reports of Indian nationals being recruited into the Russian armed forces. The government said it has repeatedly highlighted over the past two years the risks and dangers associated with such recruitment and has advised Indian citizens to remain cautious while seeking employment abroad.
The MEA urged Indians not to be lured by job offers made by unverified individuals or entities.
The ministry also cautioned against individuals who knowingly seek opportunities to join the Russian armed forces in the expectation that they would receive monetary benefits and later secure their release by approaching the Indian government.
“It is reiterated that this is a dangerous path and is strongly discouraged by the Government,” the MEA said.
Warning over giving up Indian citizenship
The ministry also flagged instances in which individuals have approached Indian authorities seeking to voluntarily give up their Indian citizenship, obtain a Russian passport and subsequently join the Russian armed forces.
According to the MEA, some individuals have already taken such steps without consulting Indian authorities after being attracted by temporary monetary benefits.
The government urged Indian nationals to consider the seriousness of such actions and understand the potentially fatal risks involved.
“The Government advises Indian nationals to refrain from taking such actions,” the ministry said.
Caution against unregistered agents
The MEA further said it had received information that foreign nationals were being recruited into the Russian armed forces by non-public entities, including voluntary groups.
Indian nationals have therefore been advised to conduct due diligence before accepting employment offers from agents that are not registered with the Ministry of External Affairs.
The advisory comes as the government continues its engagement with Russian authorities regarding Indian nationals serving in the Russian armed forces.
The MEA said the Government of India remains “continuously engaged” with the Russian side to ensure the safety, well-being and early discharge of all Indian nationals in the Russian armed forces.
