Evacuations Begin in Ukraine Under Localized Ceasefire Brokered by Melania Trump

An evacuation and humanitarian aid mission began Friday in the Russian-occupied city of Oleshky, Ukraine, during a localized ceasefire brokered by U.S. First Lady Melania Trump and involving Pope Leo XIV. Ukrainian officials described the operation as a notable pause in fighting during the ongoing conflict. Humanitarian teams from both sides were deployed, and the first lady posted on X about delivering aid and preparing the convoy for civilian evacuations.

Operation Details and Logistics

According to Russia’s human rights commissioner, Yana Lantratova, a convoy of 25 buses with a capacity of 750 passengers, nine ambulances, and over 50 medical professionals was prepared. Lantratova stated that residents wishing to leave for either Russian or Ukrainian territory were gathering to board buses. Ukrainian human rights ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets confirmed his presence on the ground, stating the ceasefire had lasted over 80 hours. Kyrylo Budanov, head of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s office, emphasized the importance of the operation.

Background and Concerns

Oleshky, seized by Russian forces during the 2022 invasion, has seen its population drop from over 20,000 to an estimated 2,000. Pope Leo XIV reportedly called Russian President Vladimir Putin on Oct. 16 to urge a pause in fighting. The first lady’s office stated she worked to broker the truce following a September UN gathering. The ceasefire, announced Oct. 23 and taking effect Tuesday, is scheduled to expire Sunday at 10:59 p.m. Kyiv time. Despite the localized pause, Russian missile strikes were reported in other areas, and some evacuees expressed anxiety regarding their transit routes through Russia and Belarus.