Australian sniper dubbed ‘the Ninja’ is killed in Ukraine
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Australian sniper dubbed ‘Ninja’ is killed in Ukraine fighting Vladimir Putin’s forces as his incredible act of bravery against Russians is revealed: ‘Our grief is unfathomable’
- Trevor Kjeldal, 40, from Brisbane, reportedly killed in action in Ukraine
- He gained fame in Ukraine as a sniper and was dubbed ‘the Ninja’ sniper
- Mr Kjedal’s death was confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
An Australian freedom fighter dubbed ‘the Ninja’ has been killed while fighting against Russian forces in Ukraine.
Trevor Kjeldal, 40, from Brisbane, was reportedly killed this week in fighting in Ukraine’s Donbas region.
Mr Kjeldal, who was described as ‘a very dear and beloved member’ of his family, is said to have arrived in Ukraine earlier this year.
Social media posts suggest he was injured in July before bravely returning to the front lines in September.
His death was confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, which now says it is providing assistance to his family.
Trevor Kjeldal, 40, from Brisbane, reportedly killed in action in Ukraine’s Donbas region this week
He was dubbed ‘the Ninja’ on social media after causing a stir during his time on the front lines
Mr Kjedal is said to have served in the 49th ‘Select Carpathian’ battalion of the Ukrainian army.
He was dubbed “the Ninja” on social media after causing a stir during his time on the front lines.
Just last month, he told a crew from Nine News that he felt compelled to help in the war.
“Ukraine was in trouble, they needed people to come and help, so we came and helped,” he said.
In a statement, his family expressed their grief over Mr Kjeldal’s passing.
“Our deep sadness at his loss is unfathomable,” the family said.
“We would like to thank DFAT for their continued assistance in bringing him to our home.
“During this incredibly sad time, we would like to ask the media to respect our privacy as we grieve.”
DFAT expressed its deepest condolences to the family and said it was unable to comment further.
Mr. Kjedal is believed to have served in the Ukrainian Army’s 49th ‘Select Carpathian’ Battalion
Social media posts suggest he was injured in July before returning to the front lines in September
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also conveyed his condolences to Mr Kjeldal’s family and friends on Saturday.
“This is tragic news. I remind people that the DFAT advice is that people should not travel to Ukraine,” he said at a press conference in Queensland.
“It’s a dangerous place, but my heart goes out to the family and friends of the gentleman involved.”
Consular assistance may include support and guidance to families and liaison with local and Australian authorities to help arrange funerals or repatriation of remains.
The Australian government’s advice for Ukraine is no travel.