AFUO relieved of reports Russian captive Oscar Jenkins is alive

Presumed killed in Russian captivity, Aussie legionnaire Oscar Jenkins is possibly alive, according to Australia’s Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. 

Although the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO) is relieved by reports that Jenkins – a 32-year-old teacher from Melbourne – may be still alive, the federation is deeply concerned about the conditions of his captivity. 

“Russian soldiers have a shocking record in their treatment of prisoners of war — a recent UN report found all interviewed Ukrainian POWs had experienced torture including beatings, being subjected to electric shock, and prolonged solitary confinement,” the AFUO said.

The organization hopes that increased attention on Oscar’s case will ensure he is treated humanely and in line with international standards.

“What a relief this news must be to his family and friends, who have had a shocking time filled with uncertainty, grief and a sense of powerlessness, particularly over Christmas when Oscar’s capture was first reported,” said Kateryna Argyrou, Co-Chair of the AFUO and a UWC Board of Directors member.

Argyrou emphasized that Kremlin ruler Vladimir Putin personally “bears responsibility for the pain” caused, not only in Jenkin’s case but also for the invasion of Ukraine, the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 by Russian forces, and the Dec. 25, 2024, downing of an Azerbaijani Airlines passenger plane.

“We must never forget that he [Putin] has caused so much pain and suffering, so much death and destruction, and he must one day be held accountable,” Argyrou said.

In January, media reports suggested that Russian forces might have executed Jenkins, an Australian citizen who fought for Ukraine. This month, Albanese and Wong said that Jenkins could still be alive.