Ukraine Asserts No Bargaining Use of North Korean POWs
Ukraine’s Ambassador to South Korea declared that captured North Korean soldiers will not be used as a bargaining issue. Any decisions on their fate will follow international law. There are ongoing discussions about North Korea’s military support to Russia and the need for military cooperation between Ukraine and South Korea.
Ukraine’s Ambassador to South Korea, Dmytro Ponomarenko, affirmed that North Korean soldiers captured by Ukrainian forces will not be treated as a bargaining chip in negotiations. He stated that the issue should be addressed in line with international law and humanitarian standards, emphasizing a responsible approach to the situation. Ponomarenko’s comments occur amidst ongoing discussions between Kyiv and Seoul regarding these POWs.
Ponomarenko clarified that decisions concerning the captured soldiers’ future will adhere strictly to international law and rights. While asked about the progress of negotiations with South Korea, he expressed that it is too early to set a timeline for decisions. Moreover, he acknowledged the importance of understanding the South Korean government’s concerns and the legitimate appeals it has made regarding the detainees.
The ambassador further commented on North Korea’s involvement in the conflict, suggesting it has gained strategic support from Russia in return for military assistance. He raised awareness that Pyongyang is likely utilizing the Ukrainian war environment as a platform to test weaponry that may be directed toward the Korean Peninsula in the future. Ponomarenko urged South Korea to strengthen military-technical cooperation with Ukraine, which he identified as mutually beneficial for both nations.
Since the onset of the war, South Korea’s aid to Ukraine has been limited to non-lethal and humanitarian support. The first capture of North Korean military personnel by Ukraine occurred in January 2025, with two soldiers who were wounded but survived; they subsequently interacted with Ukraine’s Security Service investigators. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy suggested a conditional exchange with North Korea, which would require Kim Jong Un to facilitate the transfer of Ukrainian prisoners held by Russia. South Korea also indicated its intention to consult with Ukraine regarding the transferred North Korean soldiers, contingent upon a formal request.
In conclusion, Ukraine will not utilize North Korean POWs as a negotiating tool, adhering to international law and humanitarian standards. The potential implications of North Korea’s military involvement in Ukraine have prompted discussions about enhanced cooperation between Ukraine and South Korea. Understanding the long-term risks associated with these conflicts is essential as both nations navigate the complex geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
