The forced recruitment of Indians into the Russian army has been a point of tension between New Delhi and Moscow, even as the countries have expanded ties.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2024, it has recruited several thousands of fighters from foreign nations for the war on Ukraine. While there is no accurate assessment, several people from India have also been recruited — often through fraudulent ways.

The deceased has been identified as Binil T B, 32, a resident of Wadakkanchery in Kerala’s Thrissur district. A few days ago, his family received a message that he and another relative were injured in

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the whereabouts of at least 16 Indian nationals - recruited by the Russian army - are currently not known.

Addressing a press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said there were 126 cases of Indian nationals serving in the Russian Army -- 96 individuals were discharged from the Russian Armed Forces and have returned to India.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed on Friday that 12 Indian nationals serving with the Russian Armed Forces have been killed, while 16 others remain missing. This death toll is higher than the number of deaths admitted so far.

India on Friday said 12 Indian nationals have been killed while serving with the Russian military and another 16 listed by Russia as missing

The MEA reported that 16 Indians serving in the Russian Army are missing, with 126 total cases. Of these, 96 have returned, 18 remain, and 12 have died. The government is seeking the early discharge and repatriation of all Indian nationals involved.

India's Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed that 16 Indian nationals recruited by the Russian Army to fight in Ukraine are currently missing, while 12 others have lost their lives in the conflict.