Humanitarian Effort to Evacuate Residents from Oleshky
Residents of Oleshky in the temporarily occupied Kherson region have been successfully evacuated and crossed into Ukraine through Chernihiv as part of a humanitarian operation launched on October 30. A Ukrainian delegation traveled to Oleshky to coordinate the evacuation, made possible by an 80-hour ceasefire agreement.
Due to the dangerous front-line conditions and extensive minefields adjacent to active combat zones, evacuees traveled via a route passing through Russian and Belarusian territory. Three planes transported the evacuees to Gomel Airport in Belarus. From there, 25 buses with a combined capacity of 750 seats, along with specialized vehicles for people with limited mobility and nine ambulances, were arranged to continue their journey.
Support and Medical Assistance During Evacuation
On-site, around 50 Red Cross ambulances, Médecins Sans Frontières staff, and volunteers assisting with animal transport are actively involved. The displaced individuals have access to medical care and humanitarian aid in tents offering hot meals, tea, and coffee. Approximately 30 medical personnel are on duty to provide first aid, while ambulances and special buses are available for those in serious condition.
“We hope humanitarian access to Oleshky remains open and that all those needing evacuation have been safely removed from the city and its surroundings. As of now, Ukrainian citizens from Oleshky have crossed into the Chernihiv region, where they will receive all necessary assistance. It is crucial for government agencies and local authorities to work efficiently to help these people adjust,” stated Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The humanitarian convoy, organized and prepared on October 30, is escorted by a Ukrainian delegation ensuring safe transport from Oleshky to Anapa in Russia, from where evacuees fly to Belarus and then return to Ukraine by bus. Law enforcement and rescue teams are also present to maintain security throughout the operation.
This mission marks a significant step in aiding citizens caught in difficult circumstances due to the ongoing conflict. The safe evacuation of Oleshky residents highlights the collaborative efforts of the Ukrainian government and international organizations to protect and assist vulnerable populations. While the front line remains tense, such operations offer a valuable model for future humanitarian initiatives in Ukraine.
As the humanitarian efforts continue, the focus now shifts to the crucial phase of mine clearance in Oleshky. This operation is essential to ensure the safety of any remaining residents and facilitate further evacuations. The completion of these efforts will pave the way for more individuals to receive the assistance they desperately need.