Russia Suspends Strikes in Ukraine’s Kherson as Oleshky Humanitarian Ceasefire Takes Effect

Kherson, Ukraine: Russia has reportedly suspended military strikes in Ukraine's Kherson region following the implementation of a temporary ceasefire intended to facilitate humanitarian assistance and civilian evacuations from the Russian-occupied town of Oleshky.

According to the Russian Defence Ministry, the localised ceasefire began at 01:00 GMT on Tuesday, allowing preparations for a humanitarian mission reportedly coordinated by US First Lady Melania Trump, with additional involvement from Pope Leo XIV.

The agreement, announced on October 23, aims to provide urgently needed food, drinking water, medicines and medical assistance to civilians trapped in the frontline settlement.

United Nations estimates cited in the report indicate that approximately 2,000 residents remain in Oleshky, where landmines, drone attacks and continuing hostilities have severely restricted civilian movement.

Before Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Oleshky had approximately 24,000 residents. Russian forces captured the town during the initial stages of the conflict and have maintained control over it.

Situated on the eastern bank of the Dnipro River, opposite Ukrainian-controlled Kherson city, Oleshky has experienced extensive destruction during the prolonged conflict.

The town also suffered devastating flooding following the destruction of the nearby Kakhovka Dam in June 2023, further damaging infrastructure and worsening humanitarian conditions.

Under the reported ceasefire arrangement, humanitarian teams are expected to deliver essential supplies before establishing evacuation corridors for vulnerable residents.

The temporary suspension of hostilities is scheduled to continue through Saturday, although an extension remains possible depending on developments.

Despite the initiative, deep mistrust between Moscow and Kyiv continues to complicate ceasefire negotiations and broader diplomatic efforts.

The humanitarian mission could provide urgently needed relief while testing the possibility of limited cooperation between the conflicting parties.