Youths tricked into Ukraine war return India

Kalaburagi (Karnataka) [India], September 16 (ANI): Three Indian nationals–Syed Ilyas, Abdul Naheem, and Sameer Ahmed from Kalaburagi, Karnataka–who were allegedly stranded in the Russia and Ukraine border returned home safely on Friday, following timely intervention by the Central government. The family members had earlier appealed to the government for assistance in securing their release.

According to the parents, the trio were recruited by an agency that deployed them for undercover military service in Russia after obtaining their signatures. The family had requested the Union Government’s help, citing concerns about the youths’ well-being and the unclear circumstances surrounding their employment.

With the successful repatriation, the families have expressed gratitude to the Union Government for its prompt action.

The youths shared their bitter experience with ANI, revealing that they were deployed on the border of Russia and Ukraine, where they witnessed the devastating effects of the ongoing conflict. They expressed relief at being reunited with their families and thanked the Union government for their safe return.

Earlier, on September 12, the Ministry of External Affairs clarified that 35 Indian nationals have been discharged since Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Russia in July.

In total, 45 Indians have been discharged from the war-torn Russia.

Addressing the briefing on Thursday, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “In July, when our Prime Minister travelled to Russia, he also took up the matter with President Putin. And since the Prime Minister’s visit, 35 Indian nationals have been discharged. Prior to July, his visit, 10 Indian nationals had been discharged. So 45 Indian nationals have been discharged so far.”