Recent unverified footage has surfaced showing Australian prisoner of war Oscar Jenkins undergoing medical assessments by Russian forces. The 32-year-old former Melbourne teacher appeared weak and subdued, with the video capturing him having his blood pressure checked in front of a Russian flag. Jenkins, who expressed feelings of frailty and significant weight loss, also revealed a broken arm. In the 85-second clip, he stated, “I would like more freedom,” while a voice off-camera reminded him, “But you’re alive.”
Captured in December while fighting for Ukraine, Jenkins is currently recognised as a prisoner of war by the Australian government. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called for verification of the footage and reiterated that Jenkins deserves to be treated in accordance with international law. Albanese has also urged Russia to facilitate Jenkins’ return to his family. Foreign Minister Penny Wong has refrained from discussing potential prisoner exchanges, focusing instead on providing support for Jenkins and his family. The Australian government continues to assert that he is entitled to protections under international humanitarian law, with Russian authorities acknowledging his custody.