Second British fighter captured by Russia as his family hope for his safe return

The family of the second British man fighting in Ukraine captured by Russian troops have expressed their hopes for his safe return.

During a Russian TV state broadcast, former British Army soldier Shaun Pinner, 48, said he was taken captive while fighting in Mariupol with the Ukrainian Marines.

Now his family have spoken out to make it clear he was not a volunteer but in fact he was serving with the Ukrainian army.

Mr Pinner had considered Ukraine his “adopted country” after relocating there and it was where he met his Ukrainian wife, his family said.

They are now working with the Foreign Office alongside the family of Aiden Aslin, who was also taken by Russian troops, to “ensure their rights as prisoners of war are upheld according to the Geneva Convention”.

The statement read: ”Shaun was a well-respected soldier within the British Army serving in the Royal Anglian Regiment for many years. He served in many tours including Northern Ireland and with the United Nations in Bosnia.

Former British Army soldier Shaun Pinner, 48, said he was taken captive (Sky News)

”In 2018 Shaun decided to re-locate to Ukraine to use his previous experience and training within the Ukraine Military.

“Shaun enjoyed the Ukrainian way of life and considered Ukraine as his adopted country over the last four years. During this time, he met his Ukrainian wife who is very focused on the humanitarian needs of the country.

“He progressed into the Ukrainian Marines as a proud member of his unit. At the end of 2022 his 3 year contract is due to end and he was planning to enter a humanitarian role within Ukraine.”

The statement continued: “We would like to make it clear he is not a volunteer nor a mercenary, but officially serving with the Ukrainian Army in accordance with Ukrainian Legislation.

”Our family is currently working with the Foreign Office along with the family of Aiden Aslin who is also being held by the Russian Army to ensure their rights as Prisoners Of War are upheld according to the Geneva Convention.

”Shaun is a funny, much loved well intentioned Husband, Son, Father, Brother and Friend to many. We are hoping for a quick resolution to allow Shaun and Aiden to return safely to their families and we ask for privacy at this difficult time.

”Our hearts go out to all those caught up in this horrific conflict.”