Evacuees from the Russian-occupied city of Oleshky have crossed into Ukrainian-held territory after a localized ceasefire, marking a significant humanitarian operation. The civilians, estimated to number around 2,000, traveled through Russia and Belarus, arriving in Ukraine on Saturday. The movement was facilitated by a truce, though the exact terms remain undisclosed. Ukrainian authorities have imposed restrictions on revealing the number of evacuees or the specific border crossing location.
Residents draped in Ukrainian flags were seen disembarking buses and embracing loved ones after their long journey. The operation is considered one of the largest rescues since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine four and a half years ago. Despite the ceasefire, the situation remains fragile, with ongoing military activity reported in the region.
The evacuation comes amid broader tensions, including reports of Ukrainian forces using kamikaze drones launched from weather balloons to target Russian airports. This unconventional tactic caused widespread disruption across Russia. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that approximately 280,000 households remain without power following recent Russian strikes. The humanitarian effort underscores the complex and evolving nature of the conflict, with both sides continuing to navigate a volatile landscape.
