The evacuation of residents from the city of Oleshky in the Kherson region of Ukraine is being prepared following the implementation of a ceasefire on October 27. Since the occupation of this city by Russia in 2022 and the flooding caused by the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam in 2023, its residents have been cut off from the outside world.
Severe conditions for residents
According to those who have managed to escape from Oleshky, living conditions in this city are very difficult. They have reported shortages of food, lack of access to medicine, and absence of electricity and water. Currently, about 2,000 people still live in this city.
Efforts by the Ukraine Rescue Foundation
The Ukraine Rescue Foundation has announced that at least 300 civilians have been rescued from Oleshky in the past six months. Lawyer Myroslava Kharchenko, who collaborates with this foundation, spoke about the preparations for the evacuation: "The ceasefire came into effect at 3 AM Kyiv time on October 27, and mine-clearing operations began in the morning." She emphasized that information regarding this operation must be kept completely confidential.
Evacuation details and challenges
Kharchenko added that information gathering is being conducted through local chat groups and registration lists are being distributed. Additionally, information about the health status of those intending to evacuate is being collected.
The evacuation is likely to occur through occupied areas and may take place via Russia, but no specific details have been released regarding this. She stated: "We are pleased that the evacuation will not take place in one day, and we hope that those who manage to exit in the first phase will inspire others. Overall, we estimate that about 500 people may eventually be evacuated."
Kharchenko also mentioned Melania Trump's role in drawing attention to the humanitarian crisis in Oleshky and expressed gratitude for her efforts. She added: "We hope that this attention will aid the evacuation, and we will be happy to see more people transferred to a safe area."
Timing of the evacuation
In response to questions about when the evacuation will begin, Kharchenko said: "I cannot say how long it will take, but it is clear that time is needed to clear the roads of mines." She also noted that many streets within Oleshky are also mined, and this work requires time.
