India Warns Citizens Against Joining Russian Armed Forces

The Ministry of External Affairs of India issued a series of advisories between September 30 and October 1, 2026, warning citizens against joining the Russian armed forces. The ministry cautioned that individuals are being lured by unverified recruiters or are voluntarily seeking enlistment for monetary benefits under the mistaken belief that the Indian government can later secure their release. Officials described this as a "dangerous path" and a "very risky proposition," specifically warning against renouncing Indian citizenship to obtain Russian passports for military service, which complicates repatriation efforts.

These warnings follow reports from families in Telangana, India, who allege that four men—Bhookya Ravinder, Sirshu Ashok, Megavath Prakash, and Mohammed Afzal Khan—were deceived by agents into joining the Russian military. The men reportedly paid approximately ₹3 lakh each for promised civilian jobs in the oil industry or general labor. Families claim the men were instead taken to military camps, underwent weapons training, and were deployed to the Donetsk region of Ukraine, where some are allegedly being tortured and forced to carry explosives.

The Government of Telangana is currently coordinating with the Indian embassy in Moscow to facilitate the men's return. The Indian government remains engaged with Russian authorities to ensure the safety of its nationals; as of July, 139 Indians have been released, while efforts continue for approximately two dozen others still in service.