Australia 'seriously concerned' after Russia releases video of emaciated-looking soldier
What's the story
The Australian government has expressed "serious concerns" over the welfare of Oscar Jenkins, an Australian citizen captured by Russian forces. This comes after a new and unverified footage of Jenkins surfaced, purportedly showing him alive in Russian captivity but with a broken arm. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed on ABC that the footage "appears to confirm" Jenkins is alive but expressed concern over his condition. He emphasized Russia must follow international humanitarian law as Jenkins is a prisoner of war.
Video details
New video of Australian prisoner emerges, government reacts
The video, shared on February 8, shows Jenkins wearing cold-weather camouflage and a green wool hat. An unidentified man behind the camera declares the date to be January 17, 2025, refuting earlier reports of Jenkins's death. In the clip, Jenkins looks uncomfortable and says he feels weak with a lot of weight loss due to a broken arm and injured hand. The video's authenticity remains unverified as of now.
Twitter Post
Video showing Jenkins, purportedly made on January 17
The latest video of Oscar Jenkins dated to Jan 17, 2025.
— Thunder26 (@Thunder261) February 17, 2025
Since then nothing, however he is most likely to be alive in captivity. pic.twitter.com/hYEvlVDU2w
Diplomatic tensions
Australia's stance on Russia-Ukraine conflict
Australia has been vocal in condemning Russia's actions, calling the 2022 invasion of Ukraine "illegal and immoral." The country has also given over 1.5 billion Australian dollars to support Ukraine's "sovereignty and territorial integrity." Australia-Russia relations have been strained since a Russian missile downed Malaysian Airlines flight MH17 in 2014, killing all 298 people onboard, including 38 Australians.