State Minister leads delegation to Russia

A delegation led by Foreign Affairs State Minister Tharaka Balasuriya has left for Russia to address the critical situation faced by Sri Lankan military personnel caught in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The team left on Sunday, aiming to take urgent measures to support affected Sri Lankans.

The delegation includes MPs Dayasiri Jayasekara and Gamini Waleboda, Defence Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne, and former Sri Lankan Ambassador to Russia Dr.Saman Weerasinghe. The group is set to hold discussions with high-ranking Russian officials over the next two days, including the Foreign Affairs Deputy Minister.

Many Sri Lankan military personnel, recruited under the guise of auxiliary services on tourist visas, have been facing severe difficulties in Russia. Initially promised non-combat roles, these individuals were trained and deployed as mercenaries. Reports indicate that some have died, while some others are missing or injured, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Sri Lankan delegation’s mission includes meeting with injured soldiers and gathering information on those who have died or are missing. They also plan to negotiate compensation for the families of the deceased and explore possible measures to support the injured soldiers.

Extensive information has been provided to the Criminal Investigation Department about the individuals and agencies involved in this human smuggling operation.

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