Residents leave devastated Russian-occupied Oleshky as evacuation corridor opens
An evacuation corridor has opened in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian city of Oleshky, facilitated by a ceasefire brokered by Melania Trump. Residents are being offered the choice to relocate to either Russian-controlled territory or Ukraine via a complex transit route through Belarus.
Why it matters
The involvement of high-profile international figures in local humanitarian corridors represents a significant shift in diplomatic efforts regarding the ongoing conflict.
Image source, Reuters Image caption, Russian sappers have been demining the road out of Oleshky since Tuesday
The evacuation of the Russian-occupied Ukrainian city of Oleshky is under way, Russian and Ukrainian authorities have confirmed.
A ceasefire, brokered by US First Lady Melania Trump, has been in force in the entire frontline region of Kherson since Tuesday, allowing for the road out of Oleshky to be demined.
The residents of Oleshky who wish to leave have a four-hour window to do so. An evacuation convoy of 25 buses will allow up to 750 people to leave Oleshky until 14:00 (12:00 GMT), along with ambulances for people with limited mobility.
It is understood several hundred people have decided to stay in the town, despite the widespread devastation and the lack of gas, electricity and running water.
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Joint Relief Operation Begins in Russian Held Ukrainian City of Oleshky
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