Australian Teacher Held Captive in Russia Confirmed Alive

AUAustralia|

The Australian government has received confirmation from Russia that Oscar Jenkins, a 32-year-old teacher captured last year while fighting for Ukraine, is still alive and in custody. This statement was made by Foreign Minister Penny Wong, who addressed previous concerns regarding Jenkins' welfare after reports suggested he may have been killed.

Wong emphasized Australia's serious concerns for Jenkins as a prisoner of war and urged Russia to comply with international humanitarian law, which protects prisoners of war from violence and intimidation as outlined in the Geneva Convention. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese previously indicated that the government was urgently seeking confirmation of Jenkins' status.

Ukraine's ambassador to Australia has acknowledged the news of Jenkins' survival as positive but requested video evidence of his well-being. Jenkins is believed to be the first Australian taken as a prisoner of war while fighting for Ukraine. In December, a disturbing video surfaced showing him being interrogated by Russian forces while restrained and answering questions about his role in the conflict.

The Australian government continues to call for Jenkins’ release and is closely monitoring the situation.

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