Dangerous Path: India Warns Citizens Against Joining Russian Army in Ukraine War

India on Thursday warned its citizens against joining the Russian armed forces amid the ongoing war in Ukraine, describing such a step as a "dangerous path."

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement that it continues to receive reports of Indian citizens being recruited into the Russian armed forces, emphasizing that it has repeatedly highlighted the risks and dangers associated with this course of action.

The ministry noted that it has observed numerous cases where individuals voluntarily sought offers to join the Russian armed forces, motivated by financial gains, only to later attempt to secure their discharge from service by approaching the Indian government.

The ministry stated: "We reiterate that this is a dangerous path, and the government strongly discourages it."

It added that there have been several instances where individuals approached Indian authorities to voluntarily renounce their Indian citizenship, obtain a Russian passport, and then join the Russian armed forces.

The ministry urged individuals to recognize the seriousness of these actions and to understand the lethal risks they expose themselves to by undertaking them.

The Indian government confirmed that it remains in continuous contact with the Russian side to ensure the safety and well-being of all Indian citizens currently serving in the Russian armed forces, working towards their discharge from service at the earliest possible time.

According to figures released last month, 227 Indian citizens have been recruited into the Russian army since the start of the war in 2022. Of these, 139 have been discharged from service, while 51 have lost their lives.

Indian Foreign Minister Vikram Misri told reporters in New Delhi last month: "This is an issue we are constantly discussing with the Russian side."