Russia has sentenced Australian citizen Oscar Jenkins to 13 years in a maximum-security prison for participating in combat alongside Ukrainian forces, as reported by state prosecutors in Russian-controlled eastern Ukraine. Jenkins, a 33-year-old teacher from Melbourne, was found guilty of mercenary activities for fighting against Russian troops between March and December 2024, after being captured while serving with Ukraine’s military. The Australian government, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, has sought Jenkins’ release through diplomatic channels and negotiations with Ukraine, which has recognized him as a prisoner of war.
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