Australia's most decorated living soldier, Ben Roberts-Smith, has vehemently denied all allegations of war crimes and stated he will fight in court to clear his name.
The 47-year-old former SAS (Special Air Service) corporal is accused of killing unarmed prisoners or giving orders related to their deaths during his service in Afghanistan between 2009 and 2012. He emphasized that all his actions were within the rules of engagement and his own values, and denied the allegations.
Roberts-Smith was released on bail after being arrested at Sydney Airport. He called this process a "seasonal show" and refused to comment to the mass media. At the same time, he expressed pride in his military service in Afghanistan and stated that he sees this case as an opportunity to clear his name.
