Ukraine denies allegations as India detains Ukrainians and American in Myanmar-linked case
WASHINGTON — Ukraine has rejected allegations against six of its citizens detained in India, saying there is no evidence linking them to unlawful activity, as Indian authorities investigate a broader case tied to conflict zones in neighboring Myanmar.
India’s National Investigation Agency has arrested seven foreign nationals — six Ukrainians and one American — under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Investigators allege the group used India as a transit route to enter Myanmar and support armed organizations.
“As of now, no facts are proving the involvement of the said Ukrainian citizens in unlawful activities on the territory of India or Myanmar,” Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement. It also warned of “distorted interpretations” and “unfounded allegations” circulating in some reports.
There was no immediate response from the Trump administration regarding the detention of the American citizen on the same charges. The U.S. Embassy in India said, “We are aware of the situation, but for privacy reasons we cannot comment on cases involving US citizens.”
According to Indian authorities, several of the accused entered the country on tourist visas, traveled to the northeastern state of Mizoram without required permits, and then crossed into Myanmar illegally. Investigators allege they were involved in training ethnic armed groups and supporting drone operations.
A First Information Report filed in the case states that the individuals may have provided military-style training and other assistance that could amount to mercenary activity. Authorities are also examining whether the group entered restricted areas without authorization.
The suspects were detained at airports in Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata before being presented in court. On March 16, a court extended their detention through March 27 as investigators continue to probe potential links to a wider network.
Ukraine has raised concerns over due process, saying its embassy was not formally notified of the detentions. Officials have demanded immediate and unrestricted consular access to the detainees.
The Ukrainian embassy said its representatives attended court proceedings but “were not granted the opportunity to communicate directly with the detainees.” Ukraine’s ambassador has since met with officials at India’s Ministry of External Affairs and submitted a formal note of protest seeking access and the detainees’ release.
The embassy said it remains in contact with the families of those detained and is continuing to monitor developments.
Ukraine also noted that while certain areas in India require special permits, “proper marking of such areas on the ground is often absent,” which it said could lead to unintentional violations.
Indian authorities have not publicly commented in detail on the allegations as the investigation remains ongoing. (Source: IANS)
