Joint Relief Operation Begins in Russian Held Ukrainian City of Oleshky

Humanitarian workers and officials began evacuating civilians from the Russian-occupied city of Oleshky in southern Ukraine on Friday during a rare joint relief operation made possible by a localized ceasefire.

A convoy of 25 buses and ambulances entered the besieged city to deliver food and medicine, operating under a truce in the Kherson region that is scheduled to last through Sunday evening.

The city has suffered severe food and medical shortages since it was seized by Russian troops in February 2022, leaving an estimated 2,000 residents facing extreme hardship.

Dmytro Lubinets, Ukraine's human rights ombudsman, confirmed the arrangements for the safe departure of those wishing to leave the frontline area.

"Everyone who wishes to leave Oleshky will be given the opportunity to do so safely," said Dmytro Lubinets, the Ukrainian ombudsman.

Evacuees travelling to Ukrainian-controlled territory face an indirect route because direct crossings are unavailable.

They must first travel to the southern Russian city of Anapa, take a flight to Belarus, and then drive across the border into Ukraine.

Davyd Arakhamia, a lawmaker with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's party, confirmed the transit details for those heading back to Ukrainian territory.

"From there, they will fly by plane to Belarus, and then travel by bus to their homes," said Davyd Arakhamia, a Ukrainian lawmaker.

Several hundred residents have decided to remain in Oleshky despite widespread devastation and a lack of gas, electricity and running water.

"The problem is that a lot of people are staying," said Dmytro Lubinets, Ukraine's human rights ombudsman.

The White House said the temporary ceasefire was brokered by United States First Lady Melania Trump, marking a rare moment of cooperation.

Officials have not clarified whether all evacuees will successfully complete the multi-leg journey or how many total residents will ultimately choose to leave.