Australian Russell Allan Wilson Reportedly Killed Fighting with Ukrainian Forces Against Russia
Russell Allan Wilson was reportedly killed on 12 December in the Donetsk region while fighting alongside Ukrainian forces against Russia, according to social media reports and ABC citing a friend.
Wilson is believed to have served in the Australian military and is from Gosford on the NSW Central Coast, having also lived in Brisbane. He had been in Ukraine since 2023.
Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is aware of the reports and is seeking confirmation from local authorities. The department continues to advise against travel to Ukraine and is assisting Wilson's family.
At least eight Australians have reportedly died fighting in Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion began in 2022.
Separately, Oscar Jenkins, a former Melbourne teacher initially reported killed, is now believed to be a prisoner of war. Russia has confirmed Jenkins is alive.
Jenkins is reportedly subject to a sham trial and imprisonment. Australian Ukrainian groups have urged the government to intervene to include him in prisoner swaps, warning he risks becoming a forgotten prisoner of Russia's war.
Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong noted that Russia had confirmed Jenkins was alive and referenced his imprisonment.
