Additional Coverage:
- Ukraine’s surrender hotline is tempting North Koreans to desert, promising they’ll be well fed (newsbreak.com)
Ukraine Woos North Korean Troops with Comfort and Safety
Ukraine is offering incentives to North Korean troops aiding Russia in the ongoing conflict. The country’s military intelligence agency is urging them to surrender, promising comfortable living conditions and warm meals.
Special Hotline and Chatbot
Ukraine has set up a dedicated hotline and Telegram chatbot called “I Want to Live” to facilitate surrenders. Despite being blocked in Russia, it remains accessible via VPN.
Appeal to Humanity
The agency appeals to the troops’ humanity, reminding them they don’t need to “die senselessly in another country.” It highlights the humane treatment Ukrainian POWs receive, including comfortable barracks and regular meals.
Obstacles to Defection
However, experts caution that North Korea employs strict measures to prevent defections. Troops deployed to Ukraine are likely accompanied by political officials monitoring their behavior. Additionally, the threat of punishment for their families back home serves as a significant deterrent.
Russia’s Reliance on Allies
Russia’s use of North Korean troops indicates its growing reliance on allies to sustain its war effort. Moscow has allocated a significant portion of its budget to defense manufacturing and forged a pact with Pyongyang for supplies and ammunition.
Ukraine’s Challenge
Despite its efforts, Ukraine faces challenges in convincing North Korean troops to surrender due to the regime’s strict controls and threats of reprisal against their families.