Ukrainian forces this week claimed to have detained 22-year-old Majoti Sahil Mohammed, an Indian citizen from Gujarat, who said he joined the Russian army after being promised freedom and good pay. His case mirrors those of several Indians who were duped by recruitment agents into enlisting as “helpers” or “security workers” in Russia, only to find themselves deployed on the frontlines. India has already confirmed that at least 27 of its citizens are serving with Russian units, and several have died in combat.