Melania Trump negotiates Ukraine-Russia ceasefire in Oleshky region for civilian evacuation, humanitarian aid

First Lady Melania Trump has secured a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine in the city of Oleshky to allow for the passage of humanitarian aid and to prepare a thoroughfare for civilian evacuation.

The ceasefire in the region is set to begin on October 29. “The situation in Oleshky is dire. Oleshky is a front-line war city on the brink of disaster. Oleshky’s remaining population is comprised primarily of elderly residents who urgently need medical attention, medicine, food, and clean water,” said First Lady Melania Trump. “The people of Oleshky have limited electricity, live amid mined roads, and endure regular military attacks. It was abundantly clear that without my intervention, the possibility to bring humanitarian aid into the city and to evacuate the elderly would be impossible.”

President Donald Trump was asked about the effort by reporters and whether the First Lady will be involved in trilateral peace talks going forward. He was asked, "Will the First Lady be a part of the trilateral peace talks?"

"No, but it's not the worst idea I've ever heard. What she wants to do is save children, and that's her focus. And both sides are cooperating with her, so doing a very good job." He added that the ceasefire was brought about by "her initiative, and they contacted both sides, and both sides wanted to do it."

The First Lady's team worked with Russian and Ukrainian leadership in order to determine the terms for the ceasefire. Additionally, the First Lady secured "an impartial American media organization to accompany and document Russian and Ukrainian teams on the ground throughout the process. This will play a significant role in ensuring that the wishes of each family are faithfully respected.”

Oleshky is in southern Ukraine and has been occupied by Russia. Food and supplies have been scarce for months in the city. There is no electricity or running water and roads are scattered with burned-out cars, per the AP.

Melania has made helping children in conflicts one of the central issues of her time in the White House and has written to Russian President Vladimir Putin to work on reuniting families with their children.