Seoul: The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is actively engaging with Russian and Ukrainian authorities to ensure "regular and full" access to individuals detained in the ongoing conflict, including foreign nationals, according to Barbara Rizzoli, the head of the Seoul ICRC office.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Rizzoli emphasized the ICRC's commitment to maintaining contact with both Russia and Ukraine concerning prisoners of war (POWs) and those detained during the conflict. This engagement extends to foreign nationals, amid reports of North Korean troops potentially participating alongside Moscow. While Rizzoli did not confirm direct access to North Korean captives, she reiterated the obligation of all authorities to allow ICRC access to POWs under international law.

Last month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported the capture of two wounded North Korean soldiers on Russia's Kursk front lines, with one soldier expressing a desire to remain in Ukraine. Rizzoli highlighted the importance of the ICRC's confidential dialogue, which ensures regular access to those in vulnerable situations.

Rizzoli also addressed the legal status of captured North Korean soldiers, stating that they should receive the same protections as POWs until an international authority determines their status. The ICRC, founded in 1863, continues its mission of protecting victims of armed conflict globally, with its North Korean operations currently paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The ICRC remains in contact with the DPRK National Red Cross Society and is prepared to resume operations in North Korea when feasible. Rizzoli, with experience in the Gaza Strip and Ukraine, urged a united front to uphold international humanitarian law, emphasizing the protection of civilians and key infrastructure.

Rizzoli acknowledged the necessity of a political decision to resolve the Ukraine conflict and highlighted South Korea's significant role as an ICRC stakeholder. South Korea's contributions, exceeding 10 million Swiss francs in 2022, have supported key relief projects, including medical supply distribution in Ukraine.

Rizzoli expressed a desire to deepen discussions with South Korea on the military application of artificial intelligence (AI). She emphasized the need to regulate AI use in military contexts to prevent potential dangers to civilians, highlighting South Korea's active role in AI governance.