Russia has decided to discharge all Indians working in the Russian army after Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the issue with President Vladimir Putin during his Moscow visit, said sources.
At least two Indians have died fighting Russia’s war against Ukraine while dozens stuck in the war zone claim they were tricked into taking up the fighting role.
PM Modi, who is in Moscow for a two-day visit, raised the issue at a private dinner hosted by Putin last evening, sources said. Russia agreed to discharge all Indians serving in their army and facilitate their return, they added.
At the dinner meet, Putin also congratulated PM Modi for being re-elected for a third term and spoke about the rising stature of the Indian economy, sources said.
Nearly two dozen Indians are believed to have been forced into fighting the war against Ukraine after being tricked by agents into going to the country on the pretext of getting high-paying jobs.
A viral video earlier this year showed a group of men from Punjab and Haryana – wearing army uniforms – claiming they were tricked into fighting the war in Ukraine and doubling down on their request for help.
The government in March said they had “strongly” taken up the matter with Russian authorities for their early discharge. “Strong action has been initiated against agents and unscrupulous elements who recruited them on false pretexts and promises,” they said.
Indian probe agencies have also carried out raids and busted a ring involved in trafficking Indians to Russia. During the raids, it emerged that these firms sent at least 35 Indians to Russia, though an official said it was not clear if all of them were forced to fight in the war.
PM Modi in Russia
PM Modi landed in Moscow last evening, which marks his first visit to the country since it launched a war against Ukraine. Russia’s First Deputy PM Denis Manturov received him at the airport.
The Prime Minister will hold bilateral talks with Putin today and also attend the 22nd India-Russia summit in Moscow.
PM Modi has been treading a fine line between maintaining a longstanding relationship with Moscow and courting closer Western security ties. The visit is also PM Modi’s first since he returned to power for a third term.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The dialogue reflects the deepening military and defense cooperation between India and Russia. Historically, India has been one of Russia’s largest defense customers, with a relationship dating back to the Soviet era. The potential for Indian nationals to serve in the Russian armed forces could mark a new chapter in this partnership, enhancing mutual trust and collaboration.
Addressing Regional Security Concerns
One of the primary motivations behind this discussion is regional security. Both nations face unique security challenges, and the inclusion of Indian nationals in the Russian military could lead to enhanced military training, sharing of strategic expertise, and a unified stance on common threats. This cooperation could be particularly relevant in the context of the volatile geopolitical landscape of Eurasia, where both countries have vested interests.
Opportunities for Indian Nationals
For Indian nationals, the opportunity to serve in the Russian military could provide unique career prospects, exposure to advanced military technology, and training methodologies. This initiative could also foster greater cultural exchange and understanding between the two nations, strengthening people-to-people ties.
Potential Challenges and Criticisms
Despite the potential benefits, this move is not without its challenges and criticisms. Concerns have been raised about the legal and diplomatic implications of Indian citizens serving in a foreign military. Additionally, there could be domestic opposition within India regarding the deployment of its nationals in potentially contentious military engagements.
Moving Forward
As the discussions are still in the preliminary stages, it remains to be seen how this proposal will be formalized and implemented. Both leaders have agreed to set up a joint committee to explore the legal, logistical, and strategic aspects of this initiative. This committee will work towards creating a framework that ensures the safety, rights, and welfare of Indian nationals serving in the Russian armed forces.
Conclusion
The dinner meeting between PM Modi and President Putin has paved the way for a potentially transformative step in India-Russia relations. While the proposal for Indian nationals to serve in the Russian military is still under consideration, its implications for bilateral cooperation, regional security, and international diplomacy are profound. As both nations navigate this complex yet promising initiative, the world will be watching closely to see how this unique form of military collaboration unfolds.
