A 22-year-old British man, identified as James Scott Rhys Anderson, has reportedly been captured by Russian forces while fighting for Ukraine. In a video circulating online, Anderson, dressed in military gear, states he previously served as a private in the British Army from 2019 to 2023.
Russian state news agency Tass claims Anderson was detained in the Kursk region, which Ukraine had partially controlled following a surprise offensive in August. The Foreign Office confirmed it is supporting Anderson’s family amidst reports of his detention.
Scott Anderson, James’ father, expressed his anguish, revealing he had urged his son not to travel to Ukraine. “He thought he was doing what was right,” said Mr. Anderson, adding that the video left him in “complete shock and tears.” He also voiced fears over possible torture, a concern his son had shared before departing.
In the video, Anderson explains he joined Ukraine’s International Legion after losing his job and being moved by media reports of the war. He recounted traveling from Luton to Krakow, Poland, and then to Ukraine.
Ukraine’s offensive into the Kursk region on August 6 led to the temporary control of around 1,000 square kilometers of Russian territory. However, Russia has since reinforced the region with 50,000 troops, regaining territory amidst intense fighting.