On March 13, six Ukrainian nationals were apprehended in the northeastern Indian state of Mizoram. They are accused of unauthorized entry into the region, which requires special permission, and allegedly crossing the border into Myanmar without authorization.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the arrests, stating that Indian authorities are conducting investigations. However, they emphasized that there is currently no evidence linking the Ukrainians to any illegal activities in India or Myanmar.
“Some reports, particularly in certain Indian and Russian media, contain distorted interpretations of the facts and make unfounded accusations,” the ministry noted.
Details of the case have not been disclosed to protect the investigation. The Ukrainian embassy in India is providing legal assistance and ensuring that the detainees receive proper legal representation during court proceedings.
A court hearing took place on March 16, attended by representatives from the Ukrainian embassy, although diplomats were not allowed to speak with the detainees. Following the hearing, the court extended the detention of the individuals until March 27, 2026.
“Contrary to established international practices, the Ukrainian embassy in India has not received official notification from Indian authorities regarding the arrest of the Ukrainian citizens. We insist on immediate consular access to the detainees,” the ministry emphasized.
Additionally, the Ukrainian ambassador met with India’s Deputy Minister of External Affairs, Sibi George, to deliver a note of protest demanding the immediate release of the detained citizens and access to them.
The embassy is also in contact with other Indian authorities to clarify the circumstances surrounding the arrests and is maintaining communication with the families of the detained Ukrainians.
“It is important to note that there are specific restricted areas in India that require special permits for foreign visitors. However, proper signage indicating such zones is often lacking, which increases the risk of unintentional violations of established rules,” the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry added.
On March 17, The Insider reported, citing the National Investigation Agency of India (NIA), that the six Ukrainians and one American citizen were detained on suspicion of allegedly preparing terrorist attacks within the country.
According to investigators, the suspects entered India with valid visas but later traveled to Mizoram without the necessary permits. They reportedly crossed into Myanmar, where they allegedly made contact with armed groups hostile to India.
Authorities also indicated that the detainees might have been involved in organizing the transportation of several batches of European-manufactured drones to Mizoram.
Six Ukrainians were arrested in India for alleged border violations and possible terrorist links. The Ukrainian government is seeking consular access and legal representation for the detainees.