Nepalis Stuck in the Russian Army: A Familiar Tale for Nepal
The DiplomatA video recorded by Nepali citizens claiming to serve in the Russian Army surfaced on social media last month. Prior to that, in December 2023, Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported the death of six Nepali citizens fighting against Ukraine on the Russian side. While the government of Nepal does not have clarity on the number of Nepali nationals who have joined the Russian Army in the last two years, a CNN report estimated the figure at 15,000. Even though private-sector aspirants from Nepal may have shifted to third countries, many youths in Nepal still aspire to join the Indian Army for better perks and stability, on par with their Indian counterparts. Ultimately, the plight of Nepali citizens in the Russian Army serves as a wake-up call for Nepal to prioritize the well-being of its people, both at home and abroad.
History of this topic
50 Indians serving with Russian military want to quit, come home: Govt
Hindustan Times
Nepali citizens are fighting in both Russia and Ukraine, over 700 families ask Moscow for help: Report
India TV News
Nepali mercenaries lured to fight for Russia in Ukraine
The Independent
Second Indian dies fighting for Russian Army; his family says he was duped
Hindustan Times
About 20 Indians sought help for discharge from Russian Army, says MEA
Hindustan Times
Several Indians discharged from Russian Army, pursuing all cases: MEA
Hindustan TimesNepal asks Russia to send back Nepalis recruited to fight in Ukraine and the bodies of those killed
Associated Press
Nepal arrests people smugglers supplying Russia’s army in Ukraine
Al Jazeera
Why Nepalis Are Fighting on Both Sides of the Russia-Ukraine War
The Diplomat
Nepali Gurkhas joining Wagner Group to get Russian citizenship
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