Zelenskyy Confirms Humanitarian Exit From Oleshky As Russia Accuses Ukraine of Ceasefire Violations
The Pivden Group of Forces says Russian troops used the pause to move units and fortify positions while claiming Ukrainian forces broke the truce.
By Fernando Rojas ·
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on October 31 that the humanitarian operation in the Russian-occupied town of Oleshky, Kherson Oblast, has concluded successfully. All evacuated Ukrainian citizens have crossed the border into Chernihiv Oblast, marking the final step of the mission.
The truce was scheduled to remain in effect until 22:59 on November 1. It began at 03:00 Kyiv time on October 27, following an announcement by Dmytro Lubinets, Ukraine's Parliamentary Commissioner for Human Rights. The White House confirmed on October 23 that Melania Trump had secured the agreement, citing an unfolding humanitarian disaster in the area.
Maksym Kravchuk, spokesperson for the Pivden Group of Forces, stated that Ukrainian units strictly observed the ceasefire agreements. He noted that Russian military forces utilized the pause for operational purposes rather than humanitarian aid. Russian units rotated positions, fortified defenses, and installed anti-drone protection on roads. They also strengthened logistics lines and brought in additional ammunition.
Kravchuk described Russian claims of Ukrainian violations as false. He reported that Ukrainian forces recorded Russian provocations during the ceasefire period. These incidents included the use of reconnaissance drones and the dropping of munitions from drones. The Russian military used these actions to portray Ukrainian forces as breaking the truce.
The Pivden Group of Forces emphasized that the ceasefire was designed exclusively for humanitarian assistance and civilian evacuation to Ukrainian-controlled territory. Kravchuk said his units continuously monitored the situation to track Russian actions and prevent threats. The goal was to ensure the safety of civilians during the transfer.
Russian forces have maintained a presence in Oleshky while the evacuation took place. The completion of the mission ends the specific humanitarian pause that began on October 27. The next phase of the conflict in the region will proceed according to military schedules rather than the temporary truce terms.
Source: Ukrainska Pravda
