Moscow might keep Australian war prisoner Oscar Jenkins for a future high-profile swap with Russians held in jail in the West, an expert says.

The Australian government has been told by Moscow that one of its citizens in Russian captivity is still alive. Oscar Jenkins, a 32-year-old teacher, was captured last year while fighting for Ukraine.

Oscar Jenkins, once feared dead, is believed to be alive and in Russian captivity. Foreign Minister Penny Wong has called for his release and warned Moscow the federal government's response will be "unequivocal" if he is not treated humanely.

Australia is calling for the just treatment and release of Oscar Jenkins who Russia confirmed is being held as a prisoner of war after fighting for Ukraine.

Russian officials have confirmed Oscar Jenkins is alive, Penny Wong has said, ending nearly a month of uncertainty around the captured Australian fighter’s fate.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Wednesday Russia has reported Oscar Jenkins is alive and in custody. The Australian man went to Ukraine to fight against Russia's invasion and was feared dead.

Oscar Jenkins went missing on Dec. 16 in 2024 while on a combat mission near the village of Mykolaivka in Luhansk Oblast.

Australian Oscar Jenkins is alive as a prisoner of war in Russian territory and his welfare is "normal", according to Russia's ambassador after execution fears.

Government officials believe an Australian soldier reportedly held captive in Russia is alive after initial fears he was killed.