Last week, the Indian government announced the discharge of several of the 91 Indians tricked into fighting for Russia in the Ukraine war. Many of these men were duped by agents promising them jobs or positions as army “helpers” but were instead sent into combat zones with little training. Nine Indians have died, and 19 people have been arrested for human trafficking.
Urgen Tamang, a former Indian soldier, shared his message of fear from the frontlines, where many of the recruits—mostly poor, young men—faced drones, landmines, and missiles. Sunil Karwa, another recruit, described the brutal reality of warfare, including witnessing the paralysis of a fellow villager. Others, like Raja Pathan, joined out of desperation and now help others escape.
Despite promises from Russia, including an early release following Indian Prime Minister Modi’s intervention, some of the men remain stuck. While many are finally returning home, the trauma of the war remains, with survivors recounting the harrowing moments of death, destruction, and personal loss.