Kathmandu, In a recent development, Nepal has formally requested Moscow to refrain from recruiting its citizens into the Russian army. This plea comes after six Nepali soldiers, known as Gurkhas, serving in the Russian military lost their lives. The small Himalayan nation, nestled between China and India, highlighted that Gurkhas have a history of serving the British and Indian armies but clarified that no such agreement exists with Russia.
The Nepal government issued a statement urging Russia to promptly return the bodies of the deceased soldiers and provide compensation to their families. It was revealed that diplomatic efforts are underway to secure the release of a Nepali citizen serving in the Russian army, who has been captured by Ukraine.
Milan Raj Tuladhar, Nepal’s ambassador in Moscow, disclosed that approximately 150-200 Nepalis are currently working as mercenaries in the Russian army. This revelation raises concerns about the involvement of Nepali nationals in conflict zones, especially as the Himalayan nation lacks an agreement with Russia, which has been engaged in a war since invading Ukraine in February 2022.
The Russian embassy in Kathmandu is yet to respond to these developments. Meanwhile, Nepal has not only called for a cessation of recruiting its citizens into the Russian army but has also urged its nationals to avoid joining the military of any war-torn country.
In light of the tense situation, the government of Nepal is actively engaging in diplomatic efforts to address the complex issue and ensure the well-being of its citizens involved in foreign military service.
