Australia warns of ‘strongest possible action’ if citizen killed in Ukraine
Al JazeeraJAN 16
Australia Threatens Action If Citizen Killed by Russia
Above: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addresses journalists on Jan. 9, 2025, in Perth, Australia. Image copyright: Matt Jelonek/Stringer/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Anti-Russia narrative
The Russian Federation has clear obligations under international humanitarian law to treat all prisoners of war humanely and provide them with fair trials. Any harm to Jenkins would constitute a serious breach of international law and warrant severe diplomatic consequences, including potential expulsion of Russia's ambassador.
Pro-Russia narrative
Foreign fighters in Ukraine are considered mercenaries and legitimate military targets under Russian law. These individuals voluntarily participate in combat against Russian forces while armed, making them subject to Russian legal jurisdiction and military action.