KATHMANDU: In response to reports of Nepali citizens joining the Russian army, resulting in the loss of six lives, the government has taken a decisive step to stop the recruitment of Nepalis in the warring countries.

Plans are underway to dispatch official letters to both Russia and Ukraine, formally urging them to refrain from enlisting Nepali citizens into their military forces, sources said.

During Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’s recent trip to the UAE for the COP28 conference, Nepal’s Embassy in Russia notified the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) regarding the tragic deaths of six Nepalis.

Following this development, Prime Minister Dahal held a crucial meeting involving the Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Police, and the MoFA Secretary.

The meeting focused on initiating discussions with the Russian ambassador to ascertain how many Nepalis might have joined the Russian army, especially investigating whether those who were granted study permits were involved or if they joined through other means.

The Prime Minister’s Office source revealed that after consultations with Foreign Ministry officials at Singha Darbar on Monday, the government made a firm decision to dispatch letters to both Russia and Ukraine, explicitly discouraging the recruitment of Nepali citizens into their military forces.

The source emphasized, “There have been reports not only in the Russian army but also in the Ukrainian army recruiting Nepalis. In countries where Nepal lacks signed agreements, forcing Nepalis into military service is unacceptable.”

Furthermore, discussions at Singha Durbar included contemplating measures to restrict students heading to Russia for studies, particularly those with NOC (No Objection Certificate) and tourist visas. However, it was concluded that while no direct ban will be imposed, a stern advisory will be issued.

Prime Minister Dahal clarified, “We won’t prohibit students from pursuing studies in Russia, but we are committed to cautioning them against military recruitment and ensuring they are not enlisted.”

The government has committed to sending formal correspondence to both Russia and Ukraine reinforcing this stance.

Additionally, the government has formally requested Russia to repatriate the bodies of the six Nepalis who lost their lives while serving in the Russian army.