Ukraine’s Stance on North Korean Prisoners of War and Military Cooperation with South Korea
Ukraine’s Ambassador Dmytro Ponomarenko declared that captured North Korean soldiers are not to be used as bargaining chips, emphasizing the need for compliance with international law. Discussions regarding their future are ongoing between Kyiv and Seoul, with both parties acknowledging the situation’s complexity. Additionally, concerns about North Korea’s military testing in Ukraine were raised, advocating for closer military-technical ties between Ukraine and South Korea.
Dmytro Ponomarenko, Ukraine’s Ambassador to South Korea, clarified that Ukraine does not regard North Korean soldiers captured in the conflict as a bargaining chip. During an interview with Yonhap, he stated that the resolution of this matter must follow international law and humanitarian principles.
Discussions are ongoing between Kyiv and Seoul about how to handle the captured North Korean personnel. Ponomarenko stressed that decisions regarding these soldiers will be based on international law and the rights of individuals. He noted that it is too early to establish a timeline for any negotiations regarding their future.
Furthermore, the ambassador expressed concerns over North Korea’s military involvement in Ukraine, suggesting that North Korea has benefited strategically from its partnership with Russia. He cautioned that this involvement may have long-term repercussions, as North Korea potentially tests weapons in Ukraine that could later be utilized against South Korea.
Ponomarenko emphasized the importance of military-technical cooperation between Ukraine and South Korea, urging Seoul to reconsider its current stance, which has only included non-lethal and humanitarian aid since the outset of the war.
In January 2025, Ukrainian forces captured two North Korean soldiers who were injured but managed to survive and were taken to Kyiv. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy suggested an exchange with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, conditioned upon the return of Ukrainian soldiers from Russia. South Korea has signaled a willingness to consult with Ukraine about transferring the North Korean soldiers, contingent on a formal request. Furthermore, Ukrainian intelligence reports indicate that North Korean troops are being utilized by Russia in various military operations.
In conclusion, Ukraine maintains a principled stance on the treatment of North Korean POWs, asserting that their situation should be addressed through legal and humanitarian channels. The continued interactions between Kyiv and Seoul reflect a need for collaborative efforts to manage the repercussions of North Korea’s involvement in the conflict. Ponomarenko’s insights underline the strategic implications for both nations, advocating for stronger military cooperation. The situation highlights the complexity surrounding international relations and military conduct within this context.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
