**Russia Sentences Australian National to 13 Years in Prison**
A Russian-installed court in eastern Ukraine has handed down a 13-year sentence to Australian national Oscar Jenkins, accusing him of fighting as a mercenary against Russian forces. The so-called Supreme Court of the Russian-controlled Luhansk Oblast found Jenkins guilty under Russian criminal law for participating in armed conflict as a foreign fighter.
The Kremlin’s argument is that mercenaries are not protected under international law and are subject to criminal prosecution. However, this stance contradicts the Geneva Conventions, which protect prisoners of war from prosecution. The court claimed Jenkins arrived in Ukraine in February 2024 from Melbourne and signed a contract with the Ukrainian Defense Ministry at a recruitment center in Ternopil.
**A Different Kind of Foreign Fighter**
Unlike many other foreigners who have joined Ukraine’s resistance against Russia, Jenkins had no military experience before traveling to Ukraine in 2024. The Australian media described him as “much loved” by his community, a talented cricket and football player who studied biomedical sciences before working as a lecturer in China.
**International Backlash**
The sentencing of Jenkins has sparked international condemnation, with the Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong calling it a “sham trial.” Wong reiterated Australia’s position that Jenkins should be treated in accordance with international humanitarian law. She also criticized Russia for refusing to recognize him as a prisoner of war, which is a clear violation of legal norms.
**A Long and Winding Road**
Australia has been pressing for Jenkins’ release since he was captured by Russian forces. His case drew international attention after Russian media aired footage in December 2024 purporting to show him being interrogated and beaten. While some outlets later raised doubts about the authenticity of related video materials, Russia eventually confirmed to Australia that Jenkins was in custody and in “normal” health.
**The Way Forward**
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