In brief
The ceasefire begun Tuesday to open food and medical corridors to the Russian‑occupied city of Oleshky has been broadened to cover the whole Kherson region, signalling a pause in hostilities and enabling humanitarian convoys. Several thousand residents remain trapped with no electricity, water or food, while Russian forces withdraw from key roads. U.S. First Lady Melania Trump, alongside Pope Leo X, brokered the truce and pledged safe passage for aid and evacuations. Ukrainian officials praise the deal as the largest de‑escalation since 2022, hoping it paves the way for further peace steps. Meanwhile, residents still fear re‑pression and uncertain routes, while Russia’s statements promise a calm on the front lines.
A truce that began on Tuesday to let food and medicine reach the Russian‑occupied city of Oleshky has been widened to cover the whole Kherson region, according to Ukrainian authorities.
The truce is being observed by both sides, with Russian shelling reportedly halted around Kherson city and the broader area, and no breaches yet reported.
Under the agreement, humanitarian convoys are expected to clear mine‑strewn roads, deliver supplies, and evacuate roughly 1,700 to 2,000 people who remain trapped in Oleshky and several thousand more in surrounding villages.
U.S. First Lady Melania Trump and Pope Leo X brokered the deal, while Ukrainian officials say it could pave the way for future peace steps.
However, residents have endured years of electricity, water and food shortages, and many rely on eating garden weeds to survive. Mine‑filled routes and drone attacks make escape dangerous.
Neighbouring Russian‑controlled territories have already prepared temporary shelters for evacuees, though many fear re‑pression if they return to Ukrainian‑controlled territory.
Ukraine’s military chief warned against trusting unofficial reports about routes and convoy timing, urging citizens to rely on official guidance.
