Trapped in conflict: Binil TB dies in Ukraine War, another Malayali injured

Kerala: Binil TB, 32, a native of Kuttanellur of the Thrissur district in Kerala, succumbed to gunshot wounds while under detention by the Russian mercenary force since June 2024. The tragic news was confirmed by the Indian Embassy, sending shock waves down his family and community's spines.

How he reached Russia and ended up as a part of the war zone

Binil and his Malayali friend Jain from Kuranchery were taken in to work in a canteen by an agent from Chalakudy, Russia. The odds were not working in their favor as they became unexpectedly trapped between the Ukraine conflict and its mercenary force. A video was prepared out of compulsion since the group wanted to go back home. Another Malayali Survivor, Jain, in Critical Condition

As mercenary soldier Jain, who was part of the same unit, survives despite serious injuries caused by heavy shelling. He is taken to Ukraine first and then brought to Moscow for treatment. As he was sharing his messages with the family on WhatsApp.

Extremely relieved that one is alive with injuries too heavy.

The mission based in Minsk appealed afresh to Russia also for safe return. This tragic death toll and casualties of the men have galvanized a reaction from the local leadership. Head Orthodox Church Baselios Marthoma Mathews III called Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov in an urgent appeal for support on repatriating the survivors. Among the important issues that come up in this saga is instant intervention by diplomatic arms when foreign citizens are engaged in war-ridden areas.

It seemed to have brought the lesser-known face from Kerala to such Russian mercenary forces; Binil TB was reported to have died from fatal bullets when another Malayali, a Jain survivor, continued that although critically he suffered, so at Ukraine, now.