The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that 12 Indians have been killed while fighting for Russia in the ongoing war in Ukraine, while 16 others remain missing.

The casualties come amid an escalating conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with several foreign nationals reportedly recruited to fight alongside Russian forces.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, in a press briefing on Friday, confirmed that as of now, a total of 126 Indian nationals have served in the Russian Army. Of these, 96 have returned to India after being discharged from the Russian Armed Forces.

However, 18 individuals are still in Russia's service, with the whereabouts of 16 of them remaining unknown.

“The Russian side has categorized them as missing, and we are working towards their early release and repatriation,” Jaiswal said. He added that the situation is being closely monitored by the Indian government.

Among the confirmed dead is Kerala-native Binil Babu, who was reportedly killed during the conflict. The Indian embassy in Moscow is in contact with Russian authorities to arrange for the repatriation of his remains. Another Indian national, Jain TK, is currently receiving medical treatment in Moscow and is expected to return to India once his recovery is complete.

“The death of Binil Babu is extremely unfortunate. We have expressed our condolences to his family. Our embassy is coordinating with Russian authorities to ensure that his mortal remains are repatriated as soon as possible. Meanwhile, the other injured individual is under treatment and will return home once his condition permits,” Jaiswal said.

The Ministry of External Affairs also emphasized that all necessary assistance is being provided to the families of the affected individuals, and the embassy is maintaining constant communication with them.

The latest developments have raised concerns regarding the increasing number of Indian nationals involved in foreign conflicts. The government has reiterated its call for the early return of all those still enlisted with the Russian military.