New Delhi
At least 12 Indians have been killed in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war while 16 others have been missing, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday. The deceased Indians were fighting from Russia's side, the ministry added.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressing a press said, "As of today, there have been 126 cases (of Indian nationals serving in the Russian Army). Of these 126 cases, 96 people have returned to India and have been discharged from the Russian Armed Forces. 18 Indian nationals in the Russian Army remain and out of them, the whereabouts of 16 individuals are not known."
Jaiswal added, "The Russian side has categorized them as missing...We are seeking early release and repatriation of those who remain, 12 Indian nationals have died who were serving in the Russian Army."
The MEA's response comes after the death of an Indian national recruited by the Russian military while another sustained injuries during Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
Speaking about Kerala native Binil Babu was killed during the Ukraine conflict, he said the Indian embassy is in touch with Russian authorities for the repatriation of his mortal remains. Another Indian national Jain TK is receiving treatment in Moscow and is expected to return to India once his treatment is completed.
Regarding Binil Babu's death, he expressed deep condolences, stating the embassy is coordinating with Russian authorities to bring his remains back to India. He added that the injured person is receiving treatment in Moscow and is expected to return soon.