New Delhi [India]: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has expressed grief over the death of Binil Babu, an Indian national who lost his life while serving in the Russian Army in the ongoing conflict against Ukraine. The ministry is working with Russian authorities to ensure the prompt return of his mortal remains to India.
In addition, another Indian national who sustained injuries during the conflict is undergoing treatment in Moscow and is expected to return to India once his recovery is complete.
“The death of Binil Babu is extremely unfortunate. We have conveyed our condolences to the family. Our embassy is in touch with the Russian authorities to facilitate the return of his mortal remains as soon as possible. Another injured Indian national is receiving treatment and will hopefully return soon,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Friday.
The MEA further confirmed that a total of 12 Indian nationals have died while serving in the Russian Army during the conflict, while 16 are reported missing. Out of 126 Indian nationals who were identified as serving in the Russian Armed Forces, 96 have returned to India, and 18 remain in the Russian Army.
“The Russian side has categorized 16 of these 18 individuals as missing. We are actively seeking their early release and repatriation,” Jaiswal added.
Many of these Indian nationals were allegedly misled into joining the Russian Army under false promises of lucrative jobs. Last year, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) dismantled a significant human trafficking network that had been targeting Indians and sending them to the Russia-Ukraine war zone under fraudulent pretexts.
India-Russia Relations
In other developments, Jaiswal announced that India will host the annual bilateral summit with Russia this year, with dates to be finalized through diplomatic channels.
The Kremlin has confirmed Russian President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit to India, marking his first since the Russia-Ukraine conflict began in 2022. India continues to advocate for “peace and diplomacy” to resolve the conflict.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Putin have maintained regular contact, with two in-person meetings in 2024. PM Modi visited Moscow in July for the 22nd Russia-India Summit, where he was awarded Russia’s highest civilian honor, “The Order of St. Andrew the Apostle,” for strengthening India-Russia relations.
The camaraderie between the two leaders has often been highlighted, including their informal meetings and joint visits to key Russian landmarks. In October 2024, PM Modi also attended the BRICS Summit in Kazan, expressing gratitude for Russia’s hospitality.