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ISIS has released footage showing who it claims to be a captured Russian spy appealing to Vladimir Putin for help.

The alleged captive is shown dressed in black and making a direct appeal to the camera for the Russian president 's assistance.

During the clip, he claims to have been snared by terrorist militants while carrying out his regular duties.

But Russian media has greeted the film with scepticism, suggesting it is noticeably different to the murderous cult 's usual broadcasts.

(Image: VideoPress)

The man, who says his name is Yevgeniy Petrenko, said: "Today I want to appeal to the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, a man who gave an oath on the constitution to faithfully defend Russia’s citizens wherever they may be."

Petrenko is pictured wearing a badge with the Russian word for kafir - which means non-muslim - pinned to his chest.

He claims to be a captain in Russia's security agency, the FSB.

(Image: VideoPress)

It comes as the country continues to wage war against the so-called caliphate, claiming last week to have wiped out some 250 fighters during an attack in Syria.

Unlike ISIS's usual footage of prisoner appeals, Petrenko is not flanked by the group's fighters.

Similarly, his black attire is a departure from the usual oranges clothes which captives are forced to wear, Russian media pointed out.

The addition of the kafir badge is also a new addition to their harrowing films.

The FSB has yet to comment on the video.