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Ukraine Offers to Exchange Captured North Korean Soldiers for Ukrainians Held in Russia
Zelensky’s Proposal for a Prisoner Exchange
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Kyiv is ready to hand over captured North Korean soldiers to their leader, Kim Jong Un, if an exchange can be arranged for Ukrainian soldiers held captive in Russia. This marks the first time Ukraine has captured North Korean soldiers since their reported involvement in the conflict.
Capture of North Korean Soldiers
Zelensky revealed that Ukrainian forces had captured two North Korean soldiers in Russia’s Kursk region. A video posted on social media showed the interrogation of the two men, one lying on a bed with bandaged hands and the other sitting with a bandaged jaw. According to the video, one soldier expressed a willingness to stay in Ukraine, while the other said he would return to North Korea if ordered.
Presence of North Korean Troops in Russia
Western and Ukrainian intelligence estimate that about 11,000 North Korean troops have been deployed to Russia’s Kursk region to support Moscow’s forces. This presence has not been confirmed by Russian authorities. Reports indicate that North Korean troops have suffered heavy losses, attributed to a lack of modern combat experience and poor tactical utilization by Russian forces.
Casualties Among North Korean Troops
According to South Korean intelligence, around 300 North Korean soldiers have been killed, and 2,700 have been injured in combat against Ukrainian forces. The high casualty rate is linked to their unfamiliarity with modern warfare and their deployment in vulnerable roles by Russia.
Instructions to Avoid Capture
South Korean intelligence reported that North Korean soldiers had been instructed to commit suicide to avoid capture. Memos found on deceased soldiers emphasized self-destruction as a means to evade interrogation. There is speculation that captured soldiers were promised rewards, such as joining the Workers’ Party of North Korea, if they avoided capture.
Options for Captured Soldiers
Zelensky indicated that North Korean soldiers who choose not to return home could be offered opportunities to spread the truth about the war in their native language. This approach may serve to counter propaganda and encourage defection.
Potential International Involvement
While captured North Korean soldiers have not expressed interest in moving to South Korea, the South Korean government has stated its willingness to cooperate with Ukraine if requested. This could add an international dimension to the handling of the prisoners.