Russia and Ukraine have entered a localized ceasefire around the Russian-occupied town of Oleshky in southern Ukraine. Brokered by US First Lady Melania Trump, the agreement took effect Tuesday to facilitate a humanitarian mission in the war-ravaged town.
The truce is designed to temporarily stop all military action to allow humanitarian aid, including food and medicine, to reach residents suffering from acute shortages. It will also enable civilian evacuations for those who wish to leave the area, where bombardment has been constant. Civilian officials from both nations will visit residents in their homes to determine the level of assistance required.
Despite the local pause in Oleshky, military activity persists elsewhere. Russia has continued strikes across Ukraine, launching missiles and drones at various cities, including the capital of Kyiv. Additionally, the president of Finland and the prime minister of Norway have spoken on the phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin.