The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, that India continues to press Moscow “at various levels” for the release of Indian nationals still held by Russia, including those serving in the Russian army. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal made the remarks at the weekly media briefing, as reported by IANS.
The briefing followed a meeting between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Atlanta.
How Many Indians Were Recruited Into the Russian Army?
According to the figures the MEA gave in October, about 259 Indian citizens had been recruited into the Russian army. Of these, 139 were discharged through Indian government efforts and returned home. Discussions were under way on the return of 69 others. The reports do not account for the remaining recruits.
The MEA could not say how many had taken Russian citizenship, because its records cover only Indian citizens.
What Did Jaishankar and Lavrov Discuss?
IANS reported that Jaishankar and Lavrov discussed the Ukraine conflict, the Gulf situation and multilateral issues in Atlanta. Jaishankar said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had discussed the conflict with Russian President Vladimir Putin, first in Bishkek and later in Delhi. Jaishankar confirmed the Lavrov meeting on X on October 31, per another report.
Market and Trade Reaction
No market or trade reaction was found in the reports, as the matter concerns diplomacy and consular cases rather than economic policy.
What Happens Next?
The MEA says it will keep raising the issue with the Russian side. The reports do not set a timeline for the 69 pending cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Indian nationals have returned from the Russian army?
The MEA said 139 of about 259 recruits were discharged and returned to India, as per its October statement.
Who made the latest statement?
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, at the weekly briefing on November 3, 2026.
Did the MEA say how many took Russian citizenship?
No. The MEA said its records cover only Indian citizens, so it has no such figure.
Source: IANS, November 3, 2026 (also reported by news.webindia123.com, November 3, 2026).
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