**Australian Man Sentenced to 13 Years in Russian Penal Colony**
Oscar Jenkins, a 33-year-old Australian national, has been sentenced to 13 years in a Russian maximum-security penal colony. The sentencing was handed down on May 16, 2025, by a court in Russian-occupied Luhansk.
Jenkins was captured in December 2024 while fighting alongside Ukrainian forces against Russia. Australia has condemned Russia’s invasion and has provided nearly $1 billion in aid to Ukraine since 2022. This includes military training and equipment, making it one of the top non-NATO backers.
**Russia’s Claim of Mercenary Status**
Russian state prosecutors claimed that Jenkins was found guilty of participating in armed conflict as a “mercenary.” The court ruled that he was not entitled to prisoner-of-war protections and ordered his transfer to a “strict regime” facility. Prosecutors also alleged that Jenkins received between $7,400 and $10,000 monthly while serving in Ukraine, which is an unrealistic claim considering the lower salaries and combat bonuses of regular Ukrainian army soldiers.
**Australian Government Condemns Verdict**
Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong responded to the ruling on May 17, stating that the Australian government is “appalled at the sham trial and 13-year sentence given to Australian man Oscar Jenkins.” She reiterated that Russia is obligated under international humanitarian law to treat Jenkins humanely and recognize his POW status.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also condemned the verdict, calling it an “outrage” and a continuation of Russia’s behavior. He emphasized that Australia will continue to work with Ukraine and the International Committee of the Red Cross to advocate for Jenkins’ safety and release.
**Concerns Over Treatment**
Detention and interrogation footage of Jenkins have sparked international concern. The video shows him being struck twice during interrogation, struggling to understand questions in Russian, and identifying himself as a soldier, teacher in China, and student in Australia. This has raised concerns about his treatment while in custody.
The Australian government summoned the Russian ambassador in January after unconfirmed reports that Jenkins had died in custody. New footage emerged in February showing Jenkins alive but frail, possibly with a broken arm.
**Timeline of Events**
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, Russian prosecutors alleged that Jenkins arrived in Ukraine via the Ternopil recruitment center in February 2024. He reportedly trained, received military equipment, and served in Shchurove in Kramatorsk district before joining the 402nd Separate Rifle Battalion.
Australian opposition home affairs spokesman James Paterson called the sentencing a “sham” and a breach of international law. He expressed hope that Jenkins would be released as part of a future prisoner exchange.
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