A Sri Lankan delegation is set to visit Russia from June 5-7 to address the involvement of Sri Lankan military personnel in the Russia-Ukraine war, according to State Minister Tharaka Balasuriya. The delegation aims to discuss the repatriation and safety of these individuals with Russian authorities, facilitated by Russian Ambassador Levan Dzhagaryan.

The visit comes as the Sri Lankan Defence Ministry has received 455 complaints, with 16 Sri Lankans reported missing and 26 already repatriated. Foreign Minister Ali Sabry announced that Russia will now require Sri Lanka Defence Ministry clearance for visit visas for ex-servicemen, following a meeting with Ambassador Dzhagaryan. This move is part of ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking rackets in Sri Lanka that have sent war veterans to fight in the conflict. Several retired Army personnel have been arrested recently for their involvement in these activities.