Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pledged the "strongest action possible" during a Jan. 15 press conference if reports of an Australian national captured while fighting for Ukraine being executed by Russian forces are confirmed, CNN reported.
Oscar Jenkins, a 32-year-old teacher from Melbourne, was reported captured by Russian forces in December. Ukrainian sources told 7News that Jenkins' body had been found, suggesting he was executed by his captors.
Australia's Foreign Ministry has summoned the Russian ambassador to demand information and stress compliance with international law. Albanese said his government seeks "urgent clarification" and described the reports as "gravely concerning."
"If there has been any harm caused to Oscar Jenkins, that is absolutely reprehensible," Albanese said, as reported by CNN. He did not specify potential actions Canberra might take.
In late December, Russian Telegram channels circulated a video showing Jenkins in military fatigues, interrogated and beaten by his captors. Jenkins is seen providing his name and background as the interrogators question his desire to live.
Jenkins introduces himself in the video as a biology teacher who came to help Ukraine and is now based near Kramatorsk, a city in Ukraine’s Donetsk Oblast, located approximately 700 kilometers (430 miles) east of Kyiv, and 20 kilometers (12 miles) west of the front line.
The Geneva Conventions require humane treatment of prisoners of war (POWs) and prohibit executions, which are classified as war crimes. Russia has repeatedly been accused of violating these laws by summarily executing Ukrainian POWs.
Moscow, however, labels foreign volunteers as "mercenaries" and denies them the protections afforded to POWs under international law.
If confirmed, Jenkins' execution would mark the first instance of an Australian volunteer fighter captured and executed by Russian forces since the full-scale invasion began.
At least six Australians are believed to have been killed fighting for Ukraine. The Australian government and Ukrainian authorities continue to investigate Jenkins' fate.
Boldizsar Gyori
