Ukraine and Russia have begun clearing mines along routes to enable the safe delivery of humanitarian aid to Russian-occupied Oleshky in the Kherson region and the subsequent evacuation of civilians. A ceasefire has been in effect in designated areas since October 27, with both sides observing it, according to Ukraine’s human rights commissioner.
US First Lady Melania Trump announced the start of demining operations.
She said Ukraine and Russia were carrying out the work under the ceasefire agreement to ensure the safe delivery of humanitarian aid to Oleshky.
Ukraine’s Parliamentary Commissioner for Human Rights, Dmytro Lubinets, also confirmed the progress of the mission.
According to Lubinets, a ceasefire has been in effect in designated areas since October 27, and both sides have been observing it. Demining operations are currently underway along routes needed to deliver aid and allow civilians who wish to leave the city to evacuate.
The humanitarian mission is being prepared jointly with Russia’s Human Rights Commissioner, Yana Lantratova.
“This work is being carried out with the mediation and coordination of US First Lady Melania Trump, whose efforts helped both sides reach the necessary agreements and move toward their practical implementation,” Lubinets said.
The ombudsman stressed that the main goal of the agreements is to provide assistance to civilians in Oleshky and enable them to reach safe territory.
Earlier on October 28, Lubinets also briefed the leadership of Ukraine’s parliament, the Verkhovna Rada, and representatives of parliamentary factions and groups on the progress of the humanitarian mission, the work already completed and the next steps. According to him, the immediate priority is to help civilians who have long been without adequate support and ensure safe passage for everyone wishing to leave.
