White House says Melania Trump secured Oleshky ceasefire starting October 29
The White House said Russia and Ukraine agreed to a temporary halt in fighting in Oleshky to enable humanitarian deliveries and preparations for civilian evacuations.
Oleshky, Ukraine. US first lady Melania Trump has secured a temporary ceasefire in Russian-controlled Oleshky beginning October 29, according to a White House announcement on Friday. The agreement between Russia and Ukraine is intended to enable aid deliveries and preparations to evacuate civilians along an agreed safe route.
Humanitarian needs in Oleshky
Residents have reported worsening food shortages in the southern Ukrainian city, which Russian troops have occupied since February 2022.
Melania Trump described conditions in the front-line city as critical and approaching catastrophe. She said those still living there were mostly elderly and urgently required medical care, medicines, food and drinking water.
According to the White House, between 1,700 and 2,000 people remain in Oleshky, compared with approximately 24,000 before the war. Most are elderly, while around 50 are children. The city lies on the opposite bank of the Dnipro River from Kherson.
The White House also said flooding affected approximately 90% of Oleshky after the Kakhovka Dam was destroyed.
Aid access and evacuation arrangements
The White House said the two countries had agreed to suspend all military operations within Oleshky temporarily so humanitarian supplies could enter and a civilian evacuation could be prepared.
Melania Trump said civilian teams representing both countries would make home visits and arrange transport for residents choosing to leave for Russia or Ukraine. An American media organisation, which she did not name, would travel with the teams to record the operation.
Newsmax, a right-leaning media outlet, separately reported that its cameras would have exclusive access to cover the effort.
According to the White House statement, Melania Trump and her representative negotiated the local ceasefire’s terms directly with the leadership of Russia and Ukraine.
Broader diplomatic efforts
The announcement comes amid pressure from her husband, President Donald Trump, on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to conclude an agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin ending the war. The conflict began with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Melania Trump has also worked to reunite Ukrainian children taken by Russia during the conflict with their families.
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