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Ukraine Captures Two Injured North Korean Soldiers

Ukraine Captures Two Injured North Korean Soldiers
Above: One of two North Korean soldiers captured by Ukraine pictured on a hospital bunk in Kyiv with injuries to his jaw. Image copyright: Volodymyr Zelensyy/Telegram account

The Spin

Pro-Ukraine narrative

The capture highlights North Korea's direct involvement in Russia's war effort and proves that Moscow is attempting to conceal this participation by issuing fake documentation. This is a new threat, and Kyiv must prepare for what it means in the future, as it's only a matter of time before the North Koreans — who are currently vulnerable — improve their combat effectiveness and become a significant military force.

Pro-Russia narrative

Claims and "evidence" about North Korean soldiers being sent to fight against Ukraine on behalf of Russia are complete nonsense. If Pyongyang had to send its troops to support Moscow, it would be in line with the norms of international law, not covertly. Just because Ukraine wanted a distraction, it captured likely innocent North Koreans and deliberately misrepresented their presence in the combat zone.

Metaculus Prediction


Public Figures


The Controversies



Go Deeper

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