Russia reportedly captures British soldier fighting for Ukraine
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The British national identifies himself as James Scott Rhys Anderson, 22, and says he was part of the infamous International Legion.
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James Scott Rhys Anderson pictured prior to his reported capture by Russian forces, undated (Telegram)
Reports suggest that Russian forces have captured a British national fighting for Ukraine. In a video, the man identified himself as James Scott Rice Anderson, 22, and mentioned that he had joined the International Legion.
He was reportedly captured in the Kursk region while he was actively fighting for Ukraine.
In a video shared on Russian Telegram channels, a man wearing combat gear introduces himself as James Scott Rice Anderson, a 22-year-old from the United Kingdom.
The man, speaking with a British accent, explains that he served as a signaller in the British Army until 2023 before joining the International Legion in Ukraine to fight against Russia.
In the unverified footage, the captured man is shown with his hands bound. The exact timing of the video remains unclear.
Read next: Russia: Foreign troops in the Ukrainian army an 'open secret'
Since Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's appeal in February 2022 for foreign nationals to join the fight, thousands from across the globe have traveled to Ukraine to join what is dubbed the International Legion.
Yuri Podolyaka, a prominent military blogger with Kremlin ties, posted on Telegram that Anderson was captured near the village of Plekhovo in Russia's Kursk region.
Ukraine loses 40% of Kursk gains
This comes as Russia retained over 40% of the territory Ukraine seized in Russia's Kursk region during a surprise August incursion amid intensified Russian counterattacks, a senior Ukrainian military source told Reuters two days ago.
Ukrainian forces, which initially controlled 1,376 km², now hold approximately 800 km² as Russia reinforces its defenses with tens of thousands of troops, according to Reuters.
"At most, we controlled about 1,376 km² (531 mi²), now of course this territory is smaller. The enemy is increasing its counterattacks," the source said.
"Now we control approximately 800 km² (309 mi²). We will hold this territory for as long as is militarily appropriate."
This comes amid intensified combat along the frontlines as both Russia and Ukraine brace for potential shifts in US policy under the upcoming administration, which could significantly impact the course of the war.
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