Melania Trump brokers Russia-Ukraine ceasefire in Oleshky

The White House announced Friday that First Lady Melania Trump negotiated a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine in the southern Ukrainian city of Oleshky, set to begin October 29. The truce will allow humanitarian aid entry and civilian evacuation preparations. According to the White House statement, both countries agreed to temporarily halt military actions in the city to permit humanitarian assistance and organize evacuations through a safe passage. Melania stated that Oleshky is on the front line and "on the brink of disaster," with remaining residents mostly elderly people needing medical care, food, and water. She said she worked directly with Russian and Ukrainian leadership, and civilian teams from both countries will assess needs and arrange transport for residents choosing to go to either Russia or Ukraine. The announcement follows previous ceasefire attempts, including an October 11 energy truce that Ukraine said Russia violated after an attack on a Kharkiv power plant. A US media organization will document the process on the ground.