The government has issued multiple advisories warning citizens against falling prey to fraudulent overseas job offers linked to the conflict
The bodies of two Indian nationals who lost their lives in the Russia-Ukraine conflict reached Delhi on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, highlighting once again the risks faced by Indians allegedly misled into joining the war zone. The deceased have been identified as Ajay Godara, a 22-year-old from Rajasthan, and Rakesh Kumar, 30, a resident of Uttarakhand.
Both men had travelled to Russia within the past year on student visas. According to their families, they were lured by agents who promised them civilian work such as cleaning or assisting roles. Instead, they were allegedly coerced into enlisting with the Russian Army and sent to active combat areas in Ukraine.
Since September, at least four Indians are known to have been killed in the conflict, while 59 others are reported missing
Ajay Godara’s family was informed of his death by the Indian Embassy in Moscow on December 9. His cousin said Ajay had last spoken to his family on September 21, after which all communication stopped. Before going silent, he had reportedly sent a video message seeking help and warning that he and others were being forced to move toward the front lines. Official documents issued by Russian authorities stated that he died during active military service. His body was later taken to Bikaner, Rajasthan, where his last rites were performed. He is survived by his parents and a sister.
Rakesh Kumar’s family received news of his death earlier this month. A close friend said the family was told that he died in the Donbas region. Rakesh had last contacted his relatives on August 30. His body arrived in Delhi along with that of Ajay Godara.
The issue has drawn political attention in India. Earlier this month, a Member of Parliament from Rajasthan raised concerns in Parliament about the safe return of more than 60 Indians allegedly recruited into the Russian military. Families of several affected individuals have staged protests in Delhi, urging the government to intervene. Many have also approached the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and local representatives for assistance.
India has repeatedly taken up the matter with Russian authorities. In 2024, Russia had assured New Delhi that Indians would no longer be admitted into its armed forces and that steps were being taken to discharge those already recruited. Despite these assurances, reports suggest that enlistment continued. As recently as November 8, the MEA stated that 44 Indian nationals were still serving in the Russian Army.
