A Victorian man has been killed fighting in Ukraine, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has confirmed.
Former Australian Army serviceman Sage O’Donnell, 24, died in the days leading up to Christmas, according to The Herald Sun.
Mr O’Donnell’s grief-stricken mother issued a statement via DFAT. She said the family is “devastated” by the news.
She described her son as humorous and kind-hearted.
Want to stream your news? Flash lets you stream 25+ news channels in 1 place. New to Flash? Try 1 month free. Offer available for a limited time only >
“Sage was much loved by his friends and family. Sage’s humour, kind heart, values and laughter will be dearly missed. We are devastated by our recent loss of Sage,” she said.
”Sage passionately upheld his values and served here in his own country and most recently in Ukraine.
“Sage chose to take action based on his empathy for the Ukrainian people, and the injustice that is taking place.
“He fell in love with Ukraine and its culture, and was humbled by the kindness and hospitality within his new community.”
DFAT confirmed said they were “providing consular assistance to the family”.
Mr O’Donnell is believed to be the fourth Australian who has died during the Russian invasion of Ukraine, according to ABC News.
Last month, Australian Trevor Kjeldal was killed in a mortar attack while fighting Russian forces in Ukraine’s Donbas region.