A Kerala man, Binil T B, 32, from Thrissur, who had been conscripted into the Russian army, has died on the frontlines of the Russia-Ukraine war. His relative, Jain T K, 27, sustained serious injuries in a drone attack. Both men had traveled to Russia in hopes of employment in military support roles but were instead forced into combat after relinquishing their Indian passports. For months, the two had been making desperate appeals to the Indian embassy in Moscow, seeking help to return home. However, embassy officials indicated they could only assist if the Russian army approved their release.

Binil’s family learned about his death from Russian officials through his wife, Joicy, who had been in constant contact with the Indian Embassy. In his last messages, Binil shared that he and other recruits were exhausted, both mentally and physically, and were stationed in dangerous terrains of Russian-occupied Ukraine. Despite their pleas, they were told their year-long contracts had to be fulfilled before they could be considered for repatriation.

This tragic incident is the second reported death of a Keralite fighting for the Russian army, highlighting the grim plight of Indians lured by job offers abroad but coerced into dangerous situations. The case has raised questions about the need for stricter regulations and better oversight in protecting citizens from falling into such predicaments.