Five Andhra youths trapped in Russian military, families seek urgent rescue

VISAKHAPATNAM

Five youths from Visakhapatnam who travelled to Russia in search of employment have allegedly landed in the Russian military, triggering fresh concerns over the growing recruitment trap involving Indians amid the Russia-Ukraine war.

In the latest development, three of the five youths were reportedly sent to the frontline nearly two months ago. Their whereabouts remain unknown, leaving their families worried about their safety. The remaining two fear that they could also be deployed to the battlefield within the next two days, according to reports.

The youths have reportedly appealed to the Indian government, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Andhra Pradesh government to intervene and secure their release. A video message seeking help is also being circulated on social media.

The incident has once again brought the role of overseas recruitment agents under scrutiny. Several Indians have allegedly been lured to Russia with promises of civilian jobs, including cooking, cleaning, security and factory work. However, some reportedly ended up in military camps, received weapons and underwent training before being moved closer to the Ukraine border.

Telangana has also witnessed a series of similar cases. Families of several men from Nizamabad, Kamareddy and Rajanna Sircilla districts have approached authorities seeking their safe return. Some men have managed to return, while others remain caught in the recruitment controversy.

The MEA has repeatedly warned Indians against accepting unverified overseas job offers linked to Russian military recruitment.

The latest Visakhapatnam case raises serious questions about illegal recruitment networks, the vulnerability of job seekers and the need for stronger monitoring of overseas employment agencies. For families, the immediate priority is to bring their loved ones home safely.