Ukrainian authorities have reported the capture of an Indian national who allegedly fought for the Russian military, prompting a swift response from India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The individual, named Majoti Sahil Mohamed Hussein, is a 22-year-old resident of Morbi, Gujarat, who had reportedly gone to Russia for educational purposes.
In a video released by Ukraine’s 63rd Mechanised Brigade, Hussein claimed that he was initially sentenced to seven years in prison in Russia on drug-related charges. He stated that to avoid further imprisonment, he signed a contract to join the Russian military for what was termed a “special military operation.”
Hussein mentioned that after completing 16 days of training, he was deployed to combat on October 1. He claimed that following a disagreement with his commander, he chose to surrender to Ukrainian forces by approaching their position unarmed. In the video, he expressed his unwillingness to return to Russia, stating, “There is no truth there, nothing. I’d rather go to prison here (in Ukraine).”
Indian officials are currently in the process of verifying these reports. MEA sources confirmed they have not received any formal communication from the Ukrainian side regarding the matter and are looking into the authenticity of the claims.
This incident follows previous reports of foreign nationals, including Indians, being recruited by Russian forces under the guise of attractive job offers or educational opportunities. Earlier this year, in January 2025, the MEA disclosed that 12 Indian nationals had lost their lives fighting for Russia in Ukraine, while 16 others remained unaccounted for.
The Indian government has been proactive in addressing the situation, urging Moscow for the safe return of Indian citizens caught up in the conflict. India has maintained a neutral stance on the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war, advocating for a peaceful and diplomatic resolution and refraining from imposing sanctions on Russia.
