Melania Trump calls for lasting Ukraine truce as she hosts Russian and Ukrainian officials - BBC
Melania Trump hosted Russian and Ukrainian delegations at the White House, calling for a "more enduring" ceasefire after brokering a six-day truce in Oleshky, Kherson. Both Moscow and Kyiv credited her with the successful evacuation of hundreds of residents, and she discussed demining and humanitarian aid efforts.
Why it matters
This event highlights an unusual diplomatic role played by a former First Lady in a major international conflict, potentially opening informal channels for de-escalation and humanitarian aid, even as official talks remain stalled.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Laura Gozzi Watch: US First Lady Melania Trump given Ukraine's highest award for women US First Lady Melania Trump called for a "more enduring" ceasefire in Ukraine as she welcomed Russian and Ukrainian delegations at the White House following last week's truce in the southern region of Kherson.
Hundreds of residents of the Russian-occupied Ukrainian town of Oleshky facing starvation and constant bombardment were able to evacuate during a six-day ceasefire, which both Moscow and Kyiv credited Trump with brokering.
"The lives of innocent people must transcend the division of war. I hope Oleshky inspires greater peace," she said.
The unusual White House event saw senior Ukrainian and Russian officials meet away from the setting of official US-brokered peace talks they have been holding without success since last year.
Also covering this story
4 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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