India’s foreign ministry acknowledged on Friday that some Indian citizens had been recruited for “support jobs” with the Russian army and stated that they were working with Moscow to ensure their release. The Hindu newspaper had reported that 18 Indians were stuck in border towns along Russia’s border with Ukraine, with three allegedly being compelled to fight alongside the Russian forces. While the foreign ministry did not confirm the participation of Indians in combat roles, it did admit that some had taken up support positions with the Russian army. The ministry stated that the Indian Embassy had been actively involved in seeking their release with the Russian authorities. According to The Hindu’s report, Indians were deceived by recruiters in Dubai who promised high wages and a Russian passport. Upon arrival in Moscow, they were allegedly trained by the Russian army in handling weapons and sent to the frontlines last month.