Ukraine Offers Cash Bounties for Captured Russian Soldiers and Close-Combat Kills

Ukraine has announced a new financial incentive program for its forces, offering cash rewards for capturing Russian soldiers or eliminating them in close-range combat. Under the initiative, a group that captures a Russian soldier will receive a reward of 100,000 hryvnias, which is roughly $2,225. Additionally, each confirmed kill achieved through small-arms or hand-to-hand combat will bring in 15,000 hryvnias, or about $335. To claim the bounty for a kill, troops must provide video evidence of the action. The policy aims to encourage frontline engagement and reduce the number of enemy combatants, according to the announcement. The rewards are part of Ukraine's broader strategy to maintain pressure on Russian forces amid ongoing hostilities. No further details were provided on how the payments will be distributed or how verified claims will be processed.