Several cases have emerged in recent months of Indians who were lured to Russia with promises of lucrative jobs or education but ended up fighting against Ukraine. In May, Indian police arrested four people linked to a human trafficking network involved in this practice.

At least four Indian nationals have been killed in the war so far, prompting Modi’s government to call for an immediate stop to such recruitment and the quick release of Indians fighting for Russia.

India estimates anywhere between 30 and 40 of its citizens could be already serving, Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra told a media briefing on Friday.

“All efforts have been made that Indian nationals return as soon as possible,” he said, adding that 10 Indians had already been brought back.

Thousands of people have died on both sides since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, but India, which has enjoyed a close relationship with Moscow for decades, has refused to condemn Russia for the war, instead calling for an end to the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.

Other South Asian nations have also warned their citizens against being lured into joining the Russian army.

Sri Lanka has tightened controls to stop its citizens from being duped, with the government saying dozens who want to return home are already fighting in the war.

In May, Nepal also said that several of its citizens had been illegally recruited to join the Russian army, with at least 200 estimated to be serving at the front and about 100 missing.

Modi will visit Russia on July 8 and 9 for talks with President Vladimir Putin, both countries said earlier this week.