The Australian government has received confirmation from Moscow that Oscar Jenkins, an Australian citizen held in Russian captivity, is still alive.
Jenkins, a 32-year-old teacher, was captured last year while fighting for Ukraine. Reports had previously suggested he had been killed, prompting Canberra to express “grave concerns” for his welfare.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed the news in a statement on Wednesday, saying, “The Australian government has received confirmation from Russia that Oscar Jenkins is alive and in custody.” However, she reiterated ongoing concerns for his safety.
“We still hold serious concerns for Mr Jenkins as a prisoner of war,” Wong added, calling on Russia to release him and uphold its obligations under international humanitarian law.
Under the Geneva Conventions, prisoners of war are protected from violence and mistreatment.
Earlier, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government was “urgently seeking” confirmation of Jenkins’ condition. Ukraine’s ambassador to Australia described the news as positive but urged Moscow to provide “video proof” of his well-being.
Jenkins is believed to be the first Australian to be taken as a prisoner of war while fighting for Ukraine.
In December, a video emerged showing him bound, struck in the face, and interrogated by Russian forces. In the footage, he states that he is both a teacher and a soldier with ties to both Australia and Ukraine. His captors can be heard questioning whether he is being paid to fight.
Australia continues to advocate for his immediate release.