Oscar Jenkins had been serving alongside Ukraine's armed forces when he was captured. (Supplied: Telegram)
The Australian government is making "urgent enquiries" with Russian authorities after a report Melbourne man Oscar Jenkins has been killed by Russian forces.
A spokesperson from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) said the reports, on Seven News, "have not been verified", but the government has "grave concerns for Mr Jenkins's welfare".
Mr Jenkins, a 32-year-old teacher, was serving alongside Ukraine's armed forces when he was captured by Russian forces last year.
The spokesperson said the Russian ambassador to Australia was summoned to the DFAT at the foreign minister's direction yesterday to seek information.
"The Russian Federation is obligated to treat all prisoners of war in accordance with international humanitarian law," the spokesperson said.
"DFAT is continuing to provide consular support to Mr Jenkins's family during this difficult time.
"His family has requested privacy and we ask that media respect their wishes."
At least seven Australians are believed to have died fighting in Ukraine since Russia's invasion began in 2022, but Mr Jenkins is believed to be the first to be captured and held as a prisoner of war.
A video surfaced in December showing Mr Jenkins being interrogated and hit by Russian forces.Â
The ABC reported that DFAT first learned of concerns for Mr Jenkins's welfare in November.
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