Nepal Urges Ukraine to Free Seven Captive Nepali Nationals

Nepal has urged Ukraine to release seven Nepali nationals captured while serving in the Russian military. On March 18, 2025, Nepal’s Foreign Minister, Arzu Rana Deuba, met with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sibiga in New Delhi during the Raisina Dialogue, a multilateral forum organized by India’s Ministry of External Affairs. The meeting focused on diplomatic efforts to secure the release of the detained Nepali nationals and to discuss broader bilateral relations between Nepal and Ukraine.

Minister Deuba emphasized that Nepal strictly prohibits its citizens from enlisting in foreign armies, except under specific agreements with the British and Indian militaries. She highlighted that these individuals were reportedly misled into joining the Russian military through deceptive recruitment methods and false promises. Since they were captured by Ukrainian forces, they are now being held as prisoners of war.

In response, Minister Sibiga assured that Ukraine would follow legal procedures and consider Nepal’s request for their release. He acknowledged Nepal’s concerns and expressed a willingness to work towards a resolution. However, Ukraine has maintained that the prisoners will be treated according to international humanitarian laws governing wartime detainees.

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This situation highlights a growing concern over the recruitment of Nepali nationals into foreign military forces. Reports indicate that more than 200 Nepalis have joined the Russian army since the start of the conflict, with at least 14 confirmed fatalities. The Nepalese government has urged Russia to halt such recruitment practices and has requested the repatriation of both living and deceased Nepali nationals.

Additionally, Minister Deuba used the meeting as an opportunity to seek Ukraine’s support for Nepal’s candidacy in the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2027–2029 term. A key outcome of the talks was the signing of an agreement granting visa-free entry to holders of diplomatic and official passports between Nepal and Ukraine, strengthening bilateral ties.

Nepal continues to closely monitor the situation, prioritizing the safety of its citizens abroad while working to prevent unauthorized recruitment into foreign militaries.

This news is sourced from Kathmandu Post and is intended for informational purposes only.