Evacuation begins in Russian-occupied Oleshky, Kherson Oblast

Ukrainian officials announced the start of evacuation and humanitarian aid distribution in the Russian-occupied city of Oleshky, Kherson Oblast, on Friday, October 30. The announcement was made by David Arakhamia, a Ukrainian negotiator and parliamentary faction leader. Arakhamia confirmed the delegation's safe arrival and reported ongoing technical support for residents wishing to leave. Ukrainian ombudsman Dmitry Lubinets stated the "silence regime" has held for 80 hours, while Russian ombudsman Yana Lantratova reported the transfer of dozens of tons of aid, including food and hygiene supplies. Oleshky, a town of 24,000 before the war, now has only 1,700-2,000 residents, including dozens of children. The city suffered severe flooding after the Kakhovka Dam destruction in June 2023 and has faced a Russian military blockade, creating a humanitarian catastrophe.