Australian Teacher Sentenced to 13 Years in Russian-Occupied Court

An Australian teacher captured while fighting for Ukraine has been sentenced to 13 years in a Russian-controlled court, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region amidst the war.

Oscar Jenkins, a 33-year-old teacher from Melbourne, has been sentenced to 13 years in a maximum-security prison by a Russian-installed court in Luhansk, eastern Ukraine. Captured by Russian forces while fighting alongside Ukrainian troops, Jenkins was charged with engaging in an armed conflict as a mercenary. Prosecutors claimed he arrived in Ukraine in February 2024 and was allegedly compensated between 600,000 and 800,000 rubles (£5,504 and £7,339) monthly for his military participation against Russian forces.

Footage that emerged last December depicted Jenkins bound and being interrogated by Russian troops, who questioned whether he was being paid to fight. Following his capture, Australia summoned the Russian ambassador to address false claims circulating about Jenkins' death. The Australian government has actively sought his release, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pledging to continue advocacy on his behalf.

This case follows the sentencing of British national James Scott Rhys Anderson, who received a 19-year prison term by a Russian military court in March for similar charges, marking a significant moment for international reactions to Russia's military legislation amid the ongoing conflict.