In an urgent bid to repatriate Sri Lankans caught in the crossfire of Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine, Sri Lankan diplomats in Moscow are set to meet with officials from the Russian Defence Ministry this evening. This engagement marks the "first steps" in addressing the plight of Sri Lankans who have found themselves on the battlefront, either willingly or through coercion.
State Minister of Foreign Affairs Tharaka Balasuriya revealed that the Foreign Ministry has received up to 455 complaints concerning Sri Lankans involved in Russia's military activities. However, he cautioned that the actual number could be significantly higher.
"While some Sri Lankans traveled as mercenaries, many others were deceived into fighting on the front lines," Balasuriya stated. He explained that these individuals often entered Russia on visit visas, traveling through countries like India or those in the Middle East, only to be misled by unscrupulous agents. "Some of these agents have been apprehended, but the damage has already been done," he added.
Minister Balasuriya highlighted the complexity of the situation, noting that some Sri Lankans were assured they would not see combat, only to end up at the front. Despite the dangers, he acknowledged that some individuals might prefer to stay in Russia rather than return to Sri Lanka.
"So far, 26 individuals have been repatriated after seeking assistance from the Sri Lankan embassy in Russia, while 16 others remain unaccounted for," Balasuriya reported.
In a significant development, the Russian Defence Ministry will meet with Sri Lankan diplomats later today to discuss the situation. Russian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Levan Dzhagaryan, confirmed this meeting at a media conference held at the Foreign Ministry.
"Today's meeting in Moscow between Sri Lanka’s diplomatic mission, defence attaché, and high-ranking military officials is a crucial first step in our ongoing efforts to resolve this matter," Ambassador Dzhagaryan stated.
