Melania Trump brokers Oleshky ceasefire as Starshield dispute persists
The White House announced that First Lady Melania Trump helped broker a localized ceasefire in the Ukrainian city of Oleshky to allow humanitarian aid and civilian evacuations, with the truce set to begin Thursday local time. The limited agreement, initiated by Melania Trump, was negotiated with Russian and Ukrainian leadership and includes a ceasefire, aid delivery, and free movement for residents wishing to evacuate to either Russia or Ukraine. Ukraine's human rights ombudsman confirmed the terms, while Russia's chief of general staff ordered forces to cease fire on the Kherson axis. The announcement comes amid ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and Ukraine over restrictions on Elon Musk's Starshield satellite system and new Russian sanctions waivers. Oleshky, captured by Russia in February 2022, has suffered severe damage and flooding, with residents facing dire conditions as winter approaches.