The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday confirmed the death of three more Nepalis serving in the Russian army.

According to Amrit Bahadur Rai, spokesperson at the ministry, the deceased are Hari Prasad Aryal of Syangja, Bharat Bahadur Shah of Kailali and Raj Kumar Giri of Dhading.

This takes the official tally of Nepalis killed in the Russia-Ukraine war to ten.

Shah of Ward 1 of Tikapur Municipality of Kailali district, who joined the Russian army three months ago, died on November 26, according to the family. Shah’s family members performed the final rites by making an effigy of kush, a holy grass, as per the Hindu tradition. They said they decided as they were unsure if the body would be repatriated.

It is believed that around 200 Nepalis are currently serving in the Russian Army in different capacities despite the government's request not to risk lives there.

In an interview with the state-owned National News Agency, Foreign Minister NP Saud said the number could be much higher, adding that the ministry has received complaints that around 100 Nepalis serving in the Russian army are missing and injured while battling Ukrainian forces.

Nepal has repeatedly requested the Russian government not to recruit Nepali citizens into the Russian army and if any Nepali nationals have been recruited, to immediately return them to Nepal. But they are yet to be repatriated.

Published on: 3 January 2024 | The Kathmandu Post