Kerala man killed in Russia-Ukraine war: MEA seeks early repatriation of Indian citizens cooperating with Russian army

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed on Tuesday death of a Kerala resident who was employed by the Russian military support for the war with Ukraine and reiterated its demand for the early repatriation of remaining Indian citizens from that country’s army.

“The matter was strongly raised today by the Russian authorities in Moscow, as well as by the Russian Embassy in New Delhi. We have also reiterated our demand for early release of the remaining Indian nationals,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

Binil TB, an electrician from Thrissur, was reported to have died in the war zone after he got stuck somewhere in Ukrainian territory now under Russian control. Binil’s brother-in-law, Jain TK, who accompanied him to Russia and was assigned to frontline duty, was also injured.

Binil (32) and Jain (27) are ITI mechanical diploma holders and left for Russia on April 4 in the hope of working as electricians and plumbers.

However, upon arrival, their Indian passports were confiscated and they were sent to the war zone under the Russian Military Support Service, PTI news agency – they quoted their relatives as saying.

“We have learned of the unfortunate death of an Indian national from Kerala who was apparently recruited to serve in the Russian army. Another Indian national from Kerala, who was similarly recruited, was injured and is undergoing treatment in a hospital in Moscow, Jaiswal said.

The MEA spokesperson expressed condolences to the family of the man killed in Russia and assured that the Indian Embassy in Moscow was actively helping the affected families.

“We express our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased. Our Embassy in Moscow is in contact with the families and we are providing all possible assistance. We are working with Russian authorities to quickly transport the bodies to India. we also sought early release and repatriation of the injured person to India,” Jaiswal added.

According to reports, more than eight Indian citizens have been killed so far while serving in the Russian army. In August 2024, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed this number of deaths and revealed that an additional 63 Indian nationals enlisted in the Russian armed forces are currently seeking early release.

While the MEA refrained from providing specific details about the legality and process of their recruitment, it reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and return of its citizens.

The Indian Embassy in Moscow is working closely with local authorities to provide legal, logistical and consular support to the affected families.