New Delhi: The Indian government has confirmed that 12 of its nationals have died in the escalating conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with 16 more reported missing. These individuals were reportedly deployed by the Russian army to Ukraine.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, addressed the situation, stating that 12 Indians working with the Russian military have lost their lives. Of the 126 Indian nationals deployed by Russian forces, 96 have returned to India after being discharged from service.

Jaiswal further revealed that 18 Indian nationals remain with the Russian Army, with 16 designated as “missing.” He highlighted India’s ongoing efforts to secure the early release and repatriation of these individuals.

The announcement comes in the wake of an Indian national’s recent death and another being injured while serving in the Russian military. Reports from Indian newspapers have suggested that many Indian workers were allegedly coerced into the conflict, initially recruited as “army security helpers” but later compelled to join Russian forces.

These revelations have prompted widespread concern and calls for urgent action to protect Indian nationals from exploitation in foreign conflicts. Efforts to secure their safe return continue to grow.