British Man Captured by Russian Forces While Fighting for Ukraine
A 22-year-old British man, reportedly identified as James Scott Rhys Anderson, has been captured by Russian forces while fighting in Ukraine, according to a widely circulated video released on Telegram.
In the video, Anderson, dressed in combat fatigues and with his hands apparently tied, introduces himself as a former British Army soldier who served with the 22 Signal Regiment from 2019 to 2023. Speaking with an English accent, he states:
“I was in the British Army before… I was a signalman. One Signal Brigade, 22 Signal Regiment, 252 Squadron.”
Anderson reveals that after losing his job in the UK, he joined Ukraine’s International Legion, motivated by television coverage of the war but now reflecting on his decision as a "stupid idea." He described his journey to Ukraine, traveling from London Luton Airport to Poland before crossing the border into Ukraine.
Russian state news agency Tass reported that Anderson was captured in the Kursk region of Russia, labeling him a “UK mercenary.” The circumstances of how he ended up in Russian territory remain unclear.
The UK Foreign Office stated it is “supporting the family of a British man following reports of his detention,” while the Ministry of Defence has declined to comment.
This incident raises concerns about the risks faced by foreign volunteers fighting for Ukraine, with several having been detained by Russian forces since the conflict began. Further details about Anderson's situation remain under investigation.