Zelensky gives Melania Trump Ukraine's highest award after Oleshky ceasefire
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has awarded Melania Trump the Order of Princess Olga for her humanitarian efforts. This follows a successful ceasefire in the Kherson region, which will be discussed by Russian and Ukrainian officials at the White House.
Why it matters
This represents a rare instance of direct diplomatic intervention by a US First Lady in an active conflict zone, potentially signaling a shift in international mediation efforts.
Image source, Reuters Image caption, The US first lady will host Russian and Ukrainian representatives at the White House on Thursday
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has given the country's highest award for women to the US First Lady, Melania Trump.
The Order of Princess Olga, 1st Class, was awarded to Melania Trump for her "significant personal contribution to humanitarian support for Ukraine", according to the presidential decree.
It comes after the end of ceasefire in Ukraine's southern region of Kherson, which allowed for the evacuation of several hundred people from the Russian-occupied city of Oleshky .
Russian and Ukrainian delegations - made up of ombudsmen who were involved in the evacuation mission as well as senior officials - are due to meet at the White House on Thursday on Melania Trump's invitation.
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