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In Brief:
- The man was arrested following an Australian Federal Police examination of his electronic devices.
- The 25-year-old from Adelaide could face up to 20 years in jail if found guilty.
An Australian Army reservist finds himself facing charges for allegedly serving as a drone operator in Ukraine’s conflict against Russia, marking a unique application of laws against foreign military engagement.
Authorities from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) have accused the 25-year-old man from Felixstow, located in eastern Adelaide, of engaging with a foreign military without proper authorization.
This case is unprecedented, as it’s the first time such charges have been laid. If convicted, the individual could face a prison sentence of up to 20 years.
Australian regulations strictly control the activities that defense personnel are permitted to undertake with foreign militaries, governments, or companies without official approval.
Reports suggest that the man traveled to Ukraine in May 2025 and made his way back to Australia by January 2026.
AFP investigators executed a search warrant at a property on Thursday, seizing electronic devices, including a mobile phone and laptop.
Forensic examination of the devices allegedly revealed images showing the man participating in a foreign conflict.
The man is due to face Adelaide Magistrates Court on Tuesday on one count of a restricted individual working for a foreign military organisation or government body.
The maximum penalty for the offence is 20 years’ jail.
AFP counter terrorism commander Paula Hudson said the agency worked closely with its local, Commonwealth and international partners to protect Australia’s interests.
In May 2025, Melbourne man Oscar Jenkins was convicted by a Russian court after allegedly joining the fight in Ukraine.
Jenkins was captured in occupied eastern Ukraine and taken into Russian custody in December 2024, and is believed to be the first Australian combatant reportedly captured by Russian forces.
At the time, the Australian government insisted Jenkins was fighting as a member of the Ukrainian defence forces and should be entitled to humane treatment as a prisoner of war. Russia has described him as a mercenary.
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