EPAThe Australian authorities has been instructed by Moscow that one in every of its residents in Russian captivity remains to be alive.
Oscar Jenkins, a 32-year-old trainer, was captured final yr whereas combating for Ukraine.
“The Australian authorities has obtained affirmation from Russia that Oscar Jenkins is alive and in custody,” Overseas Minster Penny Wong mentioned in a press release on Wednesday.
Earlier, there have been experiences that Mr Jenkins had been killed whereas in captivity, with the Australian authorities citing “grave considerations” for his welfare.
“We nonetheless maintain severe considerations for Mr Jenkins as a prisoner of battle,” Wong’s assertion added.
It additionally known as on Russia to launch him and reiterated Australia’s stance that the Russian Federation was obligated to deal with all prisoners of battle in accordance with worldwide humanitarian legislation.
Prisoners of battle are protected against all acts of violence or intimidation by the Geneva conference.
Earlier, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had mentioned that the federal government was “urgently searching for” affirmation that Mr Jenkins was alive.
Ukraine’s ambassador to Australia was quoted by the Australian Broadcasting Company as saying that it was “excellent news” however known as on Moscow to offer “video proof” of his nicely being.
Mr Jenkins is considered the primary Australian to have been held as a prisoner of battle whereas combating for Ukraine.
A video surfaced in December final yr exhibiting Mr Jenkins, together with his palms tied, being hit within the face and questioned by Russian forces.
He explains he’s a trainer and likewise a soldier who lives in each Australia and Ukraine.
They ask him if he’s being paid to combat in Ukraine.
