Russia to release Indians from army after PM Modi raises issue with Putin
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Russia's top civilian honour on July 9, 2024
In a major diplomatic victory for India, Russia will release and assist in the return of all Indians reportedly serving in the Russian Army.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a two-day visit to Russia, brought up this issue during his discussion with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
PM Modimet Russian President Vladimir Putin at the President's House in Moscow on Monday (Jul8).
Putin welcomed the Indian prime ministerand the two leaders shook hands and warmly greeted each other before proceeding to their bilateral talks.
PM Modi took to social media platform X and shared, "Gratitude to President Putin for hosting me at Novo-Ogaryovo this evening. Looking forward to our talks tomorrow as well, which will surely go a long way in further cementing the bonds of friendship between India and Russia?"
Notably, the issue of Indians working for the Russian Army had also been raised by the opposition with the Congress questioning the government's stance on the issue.
The two leaders also discussed about Ukraine and will hold more comprehensive talks later today.
According to government sources, India believes that the solution to the Ukraine conflict cannot be achieved on the battlefield. This outlook is shared by the Global South and requires the involvement of both parties to resolve the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.
PM Modi on Tuesday (Jul9) will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and will also visit the ROSATOM pavilion.
PM Narendra Modi began his visit to Russia on Monday (Jul8) and received a Guard of Honour on his arrival in Moscow.
This is Narendra Modi's first visit to Russia since the Ukraine war began in late February 2022. The Indian prime minister has held telephonicconversations with both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky several times, emphasising the need for diplomacy and dialogue to end the war.
Before meeting Putin, Modi met the Indian community in Moscow. "A memorable welcome in Moscow! I thank the Indian community for their affection," he said.
(With inputs from agencies)