We never wanted them: Moscow on induction of Indians in Russian Army

Russia on July 10 said it is hoping for a quick resolution of the issue relating to India's call for the return of Indians recruited into the Russian Army as support staff and asserted their recruitment was purely a commercial matter.

In first comments on the issue from the Russian government, Russia’s Charge d’affaires Roman Babushkin said Moscow never wanted the Indians to be part of its Army and their number is insignificant in the context of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. “We are on the same side with the Indian government on the issue... We hope that the issue will be resolved soon,” he said at a media briefing while responding to a question.

Mr. Babushkin’s remarks came a day after Russia promised to ensure the early release of the Indian nationals working in the Russian military as support staff after Prime Minister Narendra Modi “very strongly” raised the issue with President Vladimir Putin.