Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky called on China in a video recording he shared on social media to put pressure on North Korea for the safety of North Korean soldiers who die while fighting against Ukraine on behalf of Russia.

“The clashes involving North Korean soldiers… They are suffering heavy losses, and it is clear that the Russian army, the North Korean overseers, are not interested in their survival. They are using all means to prevent the North Koreans from being captured by us. Their own side is executing them; there are such facts. Moreover, the Russians are sending them on the offensive with minimal protection. Some North Korean soldiers were captured by Ukrainian troops. But they were badly wounded and it was not possible to save them. This is one of the signs of how crazy dictatorships can be. North Koreans should not lose their lives in wars in Europe. North Korea’s neighbors, especially China, may have an influence on this issue. If China is sincere in its statements that the war should not be prolonged, it should put the necessary pressure on Pyongyang,” Zelensky said.