Embassy issues stern warning for expatriates, students in Russia to avoid war involvement

The Bangladesh Embassy in Moscow has urged Bangladeshi expatriate workers and students in Russia not to be lured into participating in the ongoing war. A recent emergency alert issued by the embassy's Labour Welfare Wing conveyed this appeal.

In a message posted on the verified Facebook page of the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment on Friday night, the embassy said some unscrupulous circles are trying to take Bangladeshi expatriates to the warfront by tempting them with extra money, foreign citizenship and high salaries. Initially, they are promised rear-line duties but are later deceived and pushed into highly risky frontline responsibilities, including drone attacks.

The embassy advised against travelling on 'service visas' without proper verification or accepting jobs based on unauthenticated demand letters not verified by the embassy. Many are taking risky decisions in the hope of higher earnings after initially receiving low wages, which could pose serious dangers to them and their families.

The alert also mentioned that some foreign students studying in various educational institutions in Russia are being trained in drone operations, drone assembly and intelligence activities for use in the war. Students have been urged not to engage in any military or destructive activities while in Russia for academic purposes.

The embassy also noted that working part-time without university permission, overstaying visas or working for a different employer than the one on the visa are serious punishable offences under Russian law. Expatriates have also been advised to stay away from drug use and any form of harassment.

The embassy made it clear that no legal assistance will be provided to expatriates who deliberately violate the law. Everyone has been urged to avoid all temptations, stay in legal employment, and immediately contact the embassy if they encounter any suspicious offers or legal complications.