Centre tells Rajya Sabha: 202 Indians join Russian Army, 26 Dead, 50 awaiting For Release

December 18, 2025

New Delhi: The Centre informed the Rajya Sabha on Thursday that 202 Indian nationals have been recruited into the Russian Armed Forces since 2022, of whom 26 have died and 7 are missing. This information was provided in response to questions from Trinamool Congress MP Saket Gokhale and Congress MP Randeep Singh Surjewala, who asked about the return of Indians allegedly forcibly or illegally recruited during the Russia-Ukraine war.

Diplomatic efforts for return
Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh said that due to India’s diplomatic efforts, 119 Indian nationals have been released expeditiously, while 50 are still awaiting release. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is in constant contact with the Russian government to ensure their safety, well-being, and timely return.

Casualties and Assistance
The government confirmed that 26 Indians have died and 7 are missing. The bodies of 10 of the deceased have been brought to India, while 2 were cremated with the assistance of the Indian Mission in Russia. DNA samples from the families of 18 missing or deceased Indians have been sent to the Russian government to identify the deceased.

Return and Support for Families
The Indian Embassy in Russia provided travel documents, air tickets, and logistical support to the evacuated citizens. The Embassy also closely coordinated with the families regarding the evacuation and return of bodies, ensuring that decisions regarding cremation or transportation were made with the family’s consent.

Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts
The government stated that the matter has been raised at various diplomatic levels, including through discussions between leaders, ministers, and senior officials of both countries. Parliament was assured that efforts will continue until all remaining Indian citizens are safely evacuated and brought home.