Australia summons Russian ambassador over reported death of captured soldier
Photo: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (Getty Images)
The Russians may have killed Australian citizen Oscar Jenkins, who fought for Ukraine. Australia promises to "take the strongest action possible" if this information is confirmed, Reuters reports, citing Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
According to the media resource, the Australian government had already approached Russian authorities requesting immediate confirmation of Oscar Jenkins' status and remains "gravely concerned" over reports that he had been killed.
"We'll await the facts to come out. But if there has been any harm caused to Oscar Jenkins, that's absolutely reprehensible, and the Australian government will take the strongest action possible," said Albanese.
When asked whether Australia will expel the Russian ambassador or recall its envoy from Moscow, Albanese said his government would decide its response after verifying all the reports.
Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Australia has maintained "a very difficult relationship for many years" with Russia under different governments.
"We will look at the facts when they have been ascertained, but I want to be clear: all options are on the table," said Wong.
Who is Jenkins
According to media reports, Jenkins is a teacher from Melbourne who served alongside Ukrainian soldiers. He was captured by Russia last year. At that time, a video was released showing him, dressed in combat uniform, being questioned about whether he was a mercenary.
In July last year, an Australian servicewoman and her husband were arrested on suspicion of espionage for Russia.
Investigators claim that the couple - both Australian citizens of Russian origin - obtained materials from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to share with Moscow. However, Australian police assert that "no significant compromise" of military secrets was detected.
