Gujarat student forced into Russian army, seeks help from Ukraine
What's the story
A student from Gujarat, who was in Russia on a student visa, has sent an SOS video from Ukraine. In the video, the person identifies himself as Sahil Mohammad Hussain and alleges he was forced to join the Russian military after being blackmailed with a false drug case. Ukrainian authorities released the video after Hussain surrendered to them at the frontline.
Student's plea
Hussain's ordeal and appeal for help
In his video, Hussain appealed to the Indian government for help in returning home. He said he was working part-time at a courier company while studying in Russia when he was falsely implicated in a drug case by Russian police. "President Vladimir Putin was in India recently. I would like to request the government to speak to Putin for my safe return home," he said.
Legal action
Hussain's mother files petition for son's return
Hussain's mother has approached a Delhi court seeking her son's safe return. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for February. In his second video, Hussain revealed that he accepted the Russian deal to escape the false drug charges and underwent 15 days of training before being sent to the frontline.
Scam alert
Hussain warns others about potential scams in Russia
Hussain warned other students about the possibility of being scammed in Russia in the video. He said he came into contact with people involved in narcotics due to financial and visa issues. "I feel hopeless. I don't know what will happen," he said, appealing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for help.
Twitter Post
SOS video of Gujarat student
Gujarat Student, Forced To Join Russian Army, Sends SOS Video From Ukraine. https://t.co/94BT3AA5BB
— Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) December 21, 2025
Government efforts
India working to secure release of citizens from Russian army
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on December 5 that India is working to secure the release of its citizens from the Russian armed forces. He said Prime Minister Modi raised the issue with President Putin, adding that "our concerted efforts continue on a regular basis." Misri also advised Indian citizens against accepting offers to join the Russian military.