Russia has agreed to release all Indian nationals employed in its army following discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin during Modi's visit to Moscow, according to reports from news agency ANI citing unnamed sources. At least two Indian citizens have died while participating in Russia's engagement in Ukraine, and numerous others stranded in the conflict zone claim they were misled into joining the military effort.
The sources indicated that during a private dinner hosted by Vladimir Putin on Monday evening, PM Narendra Modi raised the matter. In response, Russia agreed to discharge all Indians serving in their armed forces and facilitate their repatriation. Reuters reported that a senior Indian official informed the news agency last week that addressing India's trade deficit with Russia and ensuring the release of Indian citizens who were "deceived" into participating in the Ukraine conflict would be among Modi's top priorities in Moscow.
Regarding the recruitment of Indians for the Russia-Ukraine conflict, sources said India would strongly raise the issue, as reported earlier by news agency PTI.