Evacuation begins from besieged Oleshky amid truce
A humanitarian mission is underway in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian city of Oleshky during a rare four-day ceasefire. The operation, involving the evacuation of civilians and delivery of aid, was reportedly brokered by Melania Trump and supported by Pope Leo XIV.
Why it matters
This represents a significant, albeit localized, humanitarian effort in a long-running conflict, involving unusual international diplomatic intervention.
A humanitarian mission entered the devastated Ukrainian city of Oleshky today, as Russia and Ukraine observed the most significant truce of the four-and-a-half-year war that has raged since Moscow's invasion of its neighbour.
A convoy of 25 buses, ambulances and aid was due in the Russian-occupied city, delivering food and medicine and evacuating people who want to leave for Russia and Ukraine.
Some 2,000 people are still living there, authorities and volunteers say.
A localised ceasefire in Ukraine's southern Kherson region has held for four days and is due to continue through Sunday evening.
In identical statements, the two countries said: "Everyone who wishes to leave Oleshky will have the opportunity to do so safely.
"Those who choose to stay may remain and will receive all the humanitarian support they need."
Officials from Russia and Ukraine worked together on the operation in a rare joint humanitarian effort.
Headlinne story · 4 newsrooms
Joint Relief Operation Begins in Russian Held Ukrainian City of Oleshky
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