MEA issues advisory for Indians travelling to Russia, warns against joining Russian armed forces

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued an advisory for Indians travelling to Russia, cautioning citizens against being recruited into the Russian armed forces and warning them about the risks involved.

“We are continuing to see reports about Indian nationals recruited into the Russian armed forces. Government has on several occasions over the past two years underlined the risks and dangers inherent in this course of action and advised Indian citizens from time to time to be cautious while pursuing job opportunities abroad and not get lured by any job offers from unverified individuals,” the MEA said.

The ministry said it had also come across several instances where individuals were willingly seeking offers to join the Russian armed forces, believing they would receive monetary benefits and later secure their release by approaching the Indian government.


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“We have also come across numerous instances wherein individuals are willingly seeking out offers to join the Russian armed forces with an understanding that they would be able to avail concomitant monetary benefits, and later secure 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.