KATHMANDU, Nov 29: The Nepali Embassy in Moscow, Russia, sent a letter to the Department of Consular Service on November 24, stating that three Nepali citizens serving in the Russian army had died. Although the letter was sent four days ago, the report was revealed on Wednesday.

According to the Embassy, the deceased individuals are identified as Pritam Karki of Putalibazar Municipality-5, Syangja, Rajkumar Rokka of Melung Rural Municipality-6, Dolakha and Gangaraj Moktan of Illam Municipality-9.

In the letter sent by the Department of Consular Services, it is mentioned that the three of them were killed on November 15 while fulfilling their duties in the Russian military. However, it is not clear whether they have died in the Russia-Ukraine war or due to other causes.

The Russian authorities sent the death certificates of three Nepalis through telegram, according to the November 24 letter. The embassy also called for establishing contact with the families of the deceased in order to facilitate the repatriation of their mortal remains.

Earlier, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) issued a statement on August 1, expressing concern about Nepali nationals joining foreign military services. The statement requested Nepali nationals not to engage in security-related work in war-torn countries, citing potential risks and difficulties in rescue.

Recent international media reports indicate that Nepali youths who initially went to Russia for educational purposes are now being enlisted in the Russian Army and participating in the war against Ukraine. In addition to students, ex-soldiers, and police personnel are also willing to join the Russian Army, according to a BBC report. The report by BBC mentions that Nepali nationals in the Russian Army receive salaries ranging from Rs 60,000 to Rs 300,000 per month.

 
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