An Australian citizen is currently detained in Russia — and Australians are being left in the dark.

Oscar Jenkins has been sentenced to 13 years in a Russian penal colony after being captured in Ukraine.

Since then, there has been very limited public information about:

• His current condition
• Whether he has been independently verified in person
• What progress is being made to bring him home

Australians understand that diplomatic negotiations are sensitive.

But transparency about process and progress is not too much to ask.

We are not asking for operational details.

We are asking for basic clarity:

• Has his welfare been independently confirmed?  
• Has access been granted to international organisations such as the International Committee of the Red Cross?  
• Is he being actively considered in prisoner exchange negotiations?  
• What steps have been taken — and what happens next?  

Reports have also indicated that a prisoner exchange involving Mr Jenkins has been proposed.

If such pathways exist, Australians deserve to know whether they are being considered and pursued.

This is not about politics.

It is about accountability, transparency, and the responsibility to advocate for an Australian detained overseas.

We call on:

• The Australian Government  
• The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade  
• Foreign Minister Penny Wong  
• Our elected representatives  

To provide:

• A clear public update on Oscar Jenkins’ welfare and condition  
• Confirmation of efforts to include him in any applicable prisoner exchange negotiations  
• Transparency regarding what actions have been taken and what steps come next  

If this were your family member, you would want answers.

Australians deserve clarity.

#freeoscarjenkins