A 22-year-old Indian citizen, Ravi Moun, recruited into the Russian army, tragically died in the war against Ukraine, as reported by AFP. The Russian military, faced with heavy casualties, has been recruiting foreigners from various countries to engage in the conflict, including India.
Several cases have emerged of Indian men who were initially lured to Russia for work or tourism, only to be coerced into joining the war effort against Ukraine, with some losing their lives in combat. Moun was one of the unfortunate casualties, becoming the fifth Indian citizen to perish in Russia’s war in Ukraine while serving in the Russian forces.
After his untimely death, Moun’s family faced the difficult task of identifying his body through DNA samples. Following diplomatic efforts, Moscow agreed to release all Indian nationals serving in its Armed Forces and provide compensation to the families of those who had lost their lives.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Ukraine in August signifies ongoing efforts to repatriate Indian citizens involved in the conflict and ensure their safe return home.