Zelensky thanks Melania Trump for mediation in securing ceasefire in Oleshky

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude to First Lady Melania Trump for her role in mediating a ceasefire in the temporarily occupied Ukrainian town of Oleshky. Speaking in an interview with American journalist Tony Perkins, Zelensky specifically thanked Trump for her assistance. He recounted that a Ukrainian delegation, along with American partners, had visited Oleshky to provide medical supplies and humanitarian aid, as well as evacuate civilians to Ukrainian-controlled areas. Zelensky assured continued support for the team that carried out the mission.

When asked if the initiative could signify the start of a more extensive ceasefire, Zelensky pointed out that Ukraine had endorsed the U.S.-led proposal for an unconditional ceasefire from the outset, back in 2025. He emphasized that this stance was reiterated by Kyiv multiple times thereafter. However, he noted that Russia has consistently refused to accept any ceasefire, including an energy or maritime truce.

Zelensky highlighted that Melania Trump's mediation marked the first instance where Russia consented to a ceasefire. He expressed hope that the initiative could persist and welcomed any further signals from the United States in this regard. The Ukrainian delegation that had performed the humanitarian mission in Oleshky had returned to Ukrainian territory following their efforts.