A British man who reportedly lost an eye while fighting for Russia in Ukraine has spoken out for the first time.
Ross McElvenny, 25, from Newton Mearns near Glasgow, said he hopes to get Russian citizenship having recently submitted documents.
He also claimed he’s been treated well by Russian authorities as he recovers from serious injuries in a hospital, The Sun reports.
McElvenny, who uses the online call sign “Whisky,” recently addressed rumours about his circumstances on social media, adding he is not being deported and that Russian authorities are assisting him with the necessary documents.
In a message on Telegram dated November 4, he said: “People are helping me with the necessary documentation. My documents were leaked in the first place, and I never wanted publicity.”
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McElvenny added that he has received kindness from Russian officials during his time there.
“Everything is fine,” he wrote, but admitted he was disappointed his situation had become public.
Having reportedly joined the Russian 1,099th Motorised Rifle Regiment in August, McElvenny was said to be injured during fighting near Donetsk.
He has also responded to reports claiming he is only paid £150 a month, insisting that “money is not my motivation for being here” and that he is compensated more generously.
Since news of his involvement in the conflict broke, Russian propaganda channels have praised McElvenny’s “bravery,” suggesting he is looking to permanently relocate to Russia.
He said he has “little to no contact” with family in Scotland and added that he now considers Russia his home.
Addressing a follower on Telegram, he said: “That’s where I’m originally from though obviously I live in Russia now.”
Meanwhile, the UK’s Foreign Office has reportedly been in touch with his family, and Police Scotland have begun an investigation, with officers believed to have visited his home.
