
Oleshky Evacuation Begins Under Fragile Ceasefire, but Route Through Russia Sparks Deportation Fears
A localized ceasefire in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian city of Oleshky has enabled the first major evacuation and aid mission in over four years. Brokered by U.S. First Lady Melania Trump with input from Pope Leo XIV, the truce allows for the departure of up to 750 residents via a convoy of 25 buses. However, the evacuation route bypasses Ukrainian-held territory, forcing evacuees through Russian-controlled areas and Belarus, raising concerns about forced deportation. While humanitarian teams from both sides are on the ground, the ceasefire is limited in scope and expires on November 1, with fighting continuing elsewhere in Ukraine.












