Route demining completed in Russian-occupied Oleshky as humanitarian convoy prepares to enter, Ukraine's ombudsman says

Ukraine's Human Rights Commissioner, Dmytro Lubinets, announced on October 29 that the demining of designated routes in the Russian-occupied Oleshky in Kherson Oblast is now complete. A humanitarian convoy is prepared to depart and is expected to arrive at the city's central hospital, where aid will be provided to residents. Those wishing to leave the city may do so until 2:00 p.m. local time, with security measures in place for their evacuation. Distribution of humanitarian aid is set to begin after 2:30 p.m., according to the ombudsman.

Representatives from Ukraine, Russia, and the United States have convened to coordinate the next phases of the mission, with journalists from all three nations also in attendance. The operation is being jointly carried out alongside Russian Human Rights Commissioner Yana Lantratova, with mediation and coordination by U.S. First Lady Melania Trump. Lubinets emphasized that their collective objective is to deliver humanitarian aid to civilians and ensure the safe departure of anyone wishing to leave the city.

This mission follows a temporary ceasefire in and around Oleshky, declared by the White House on October 23 and subsequently confirmed by both Ukraine and Russia. The cessation of hostilities, which began on October 27, is anticipated to continue until November 1, providing a window for aid deliveries, mine clearance, and civilian evacuations.

Prior to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Oleshky, with a prewar population of approximately 24,000, was under Ukrainian control. Currently, the city lies under Russian occupation, situated across the Dnipro River from Kherson. Russian forces have imposed a blockade, depriving residents of essential supplies such as food, medicine, and other necessities.