Humanitarian mission enters Oleshky to deliver food and medicine and to evacuate residents
A humanitarian mission involving Ukrainian and Russian officials entered Oleshky to distribute aid and evacuate civilians during a US-mediated ceasefire. A convoy of 25 buses and ambulances delivered food and medicine while facilitating the safe departure of residents wishing to leave. Approximately 2,000 people remain in the city, occupied by Russian forces since 2022. The operation, announced by Ukrainian presidential chief Kyrylo Budanov, is a rare joint initiative amid a localized ceasefire, supported by Melania Trump and the Vatican. While some residents fear interrogation by Russian authorities, the mission aims to provide humanitarian support to those who choose to stay. Access roads were cleared, but two fatalities occurred during demining efforts. Media coverage is limited to select outlets from Russia, Ukraine, and the US.