Oleshky Truce: Firing Stops to Allow Aid

Firing toward the Russian-occupied Ukrainian city of Oleshky ceased at 04:00 Moscow time on Monday, initiating a temporary ceasefire. Russia's defence ministry announced the halt on Telegram, stating it was necessary to prepare for a humanitarian operation. The pause was arranged to allow aid deliveries and the evacuation of civilians trapped within the city limits.

Dmytro Lubinets, Ukraine's parliament commissioner for human rights, confirmed the start of the truce via a social media post. Writing as the head of the Ukrainian negotiating team, he stated that the Ukrainian side was honouring its commitments. The agreement follows an announcement last week by US First Lady Melania Trump, who secured the deal after a week of negotiations.

The city of Oleshky, located on the south bank of the Dnipro River, has faced severe supply shortages since Russian forces seized it in February 2022. Residents have been caught between Ukrainian positions across the river and Russian forces to the east. Ukraine estimates that approximately 6,000 people remain in the city and surrounding areas, a significant drop from the pre-war population of 24,000. Among those remaining are 200 children.

Melania Trump outlined the plan in a White House press release, stating that non-military civilian leaders from both countries would visit residents in their homes. The goal is to determine the specific level of assistance required. This marks the first major humanitarian intervention in Oleshky since the city was taken by Russia during the opening days of the full-scale invasion.

The first lady has taken on an active role in addressing humanitarian issues stemming from the conflict. In August 2025, she sent a letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, urging him to protect children and future generations. The current truce represents the first tangible result of those diplomatic efforts on the ground in Kherson region.