I was somewhat surprised when captured Australian citizen Oscar Jenkins was broadcast by Russian military sources. The Australian government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade [DFAT] made a statement when Jenkins’ capture was broadcast in November. DFAT demanded Jenkins was not abused and held within the provisions of prisoners of war. They know they are dealing with Russians here so grave concerns were expressed by DFAT.

Video emerged where Russian soldiers were interrogating and abusing Jenkins, I was immediately surprised Russian sources would allow the release of such footage. Then I thought more about it, the Russian military has been well documented committing war crimes and they feel they will not be held to justice. Oscar Jenkins was captured in Ukraine’s eastern areas, whilst the exact area has not been reported, it was the Donbas area.

I would think it more than likely that the reports where Oscar Jenkins was executed not long after the video footage was released is accurate. Whilst DFAT demanded Jenkins be treated as a prisoner of war in conjunction with international requirements, we all know the Russians are undisciplined and poorly trained. The Russian soldiers that are well known to be poorly led may have tortured and executed Jenkins as they were required to flee the area and retreat. Likewise, Russian soldiers may have wanted to make an example of Oscar Jenkins and executed him as a deterrent to other potential soldiers.