Second Australian Fighter Falls in Ukraine Conflict: An Inside Look at 'The Chosen Company'

In a recent development from the volatile conflict zone of Ukraine, the death of a second Australian fighter, Joel Benjamin Stremski, has been confirmed. Stremski, known among his comrades as 'Jay,' was part of a foreign military unit, 'The Chosen Company.' He fell victim to an artillery strike launched by Russian forces around the city of Avdiivka, a conflict hotspot. The 21-year-old Victorian man had previously served with the Australian army, later volunteering for the war effort in Ukraine.

(Also Read: Congress Prepares to Vote on $61 billion Ukraine Aid Amid Immigration Discord)

A Fatal Artillery Strike

Stremski was not the only Australian casualty of this deadly artillery strike. Matthew Jepson, another Australian, was also claimed by this devastating incident. Both belonged to a volunteer group of English-speaking military veterans embedded within the Ukrainian Armed Forces' 59th motorised brigade.

The Role of 'The Chosen Company'

The 'Chosen Company,' composed of fighters from various parts of the globe, including U.S. veterans, operates under the leadership of Ryan O'Leary, a veteran of the Afghanistan and Iraq wars. An Australian member of the unit described their role as a rapid response group, engaging in high-risk operations. Last year, it was estimated that about 200 Australians had travelled to Ukraine to confront Russia's invasion, although current figures suggest a decline.

(Also Read: Civilian Death in Sumy: The Human Cost of Russian-Ukrainian War).

Australia's Response and Support

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is providing consular assistance to Stremski's family while extending their condolences. Due to safety reasons, Australian diplomatic staff are offering support remotely from Warsaw. Opposition Defence spokesman Andrew Hastie has advocated for the reinstatement of Australia's embassy in Kyiv, underscoring the increasing involvement of Australians in the Ukraine conflict.

Read More