Official announcements from the Ukrainian government or credible news outlets

Zelensky Proposes Exchange of Two North Korean Soldiers Captured in Kursk for Ukrainian POWs

Jan 12, 2025, 06:26 PM

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukraine is prepared to hand over captured North Korean soldiers to their leader, Kim Jong Un, in exchange for Ukrainian prisoners of war held by Russia. This statement follows the capture of two North Korean soldiers by Ukrainian forces in Russia's Kursk region, marking the first time Ukraine has captured North Korean soldiers since their involvement in the conflict. Zelensky indicated that more North Korean soldiers are expected to be captured, and he is open to facilitating their return to North Korea if it leads to the release of Ukrainian captives. He also mentioned alternative options for North Korean soldiers who do not wish to return, suggesting they could contribute to peace efforts by sharing information about the war in their language.