Oscar Jenkins, Australian Soldier Captured by Russia in Ukraine, Believed Dead

Oscar Jenkins, an Australian soldier captured by Russia in Ukraine, is believed to be dead. Foreign fighters and Ukraine supporters say they believe the 32-year-old is dead. Authorities have "grave fears" but no confirmation. A video emerged in December of Jenkins being interrogated by Russian soldiers. An American soldier who served alongside Jenkins said he was notified of his death last week. Another Australian with links to Ukraine's armed forces said he had been provided "unnerving information" that pointed to Jenkins being killed soon after being captured. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade first learned of concerns for Jenkins's welfare in November. At least seven Australians are believed to have died fighting in Ukraine since the invasion began in 2022. But Jenkins is believed to be the first to have been captured and held as a prisoner of war. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it would be "absolutely reprehensible" if any harm had been caused to Jenkins, but stressed Australia was yet to confirm what had happened to the prisoner of war. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton said if Jenkins had been executed, then Russia's ambassador to Australia should be expelled. Foreign Minister Penny Wong also stressed that authorities were still working hard to verify Jenkins's fate, but insisted the expulsion of Russia's ambassador to Canberra was a possibility.