Melania Trump urged Russian and Ukrainian representatives Thursday to widen the Oleshky ceasefire into a broader peace effort, after the six-day pause let nearly 800 people leave and aid reach the city.
The White House said the operation brought humanitarian aid to Russian-held Oleshky in Ukraine’s Kherson region. It said Russian and Ukrainian officials signed written ceasefire agreements Oct. 23. The administration also cited earlier failed ceasefire efforts as context for the agreement.
At a White House meeting with representatives from both countries, Trump called for “something more enduring than a temporary ceasefire.” She said cooperation between the presidents could help advance peace across the region, the White House said.
Russian special envoy Kirill Dmitriev thanked Trump for her role in the operation, while Ukrainian parliamentary leader David Arakhamia urged her to continue humanitarian work, Anadolu Agency reported.
The White House said Ukrainian representatives presented Trump with the Order of Princess Olga, First Class. She also gave the delegations letters addressed to their presidents and asked them to deliver the messages, the administration said.
Ukraine’s General Staff said Russian forces rotated units, brought in ammunition and reinforced positions during the pause. Ukraine’s military said its troops complied with the ceasefire. EconoTimes previously covered Ukraine’s claims about military activity during the truce.
