In Oleshky, Melania Trump Achieved What the UN and the Red Cross Could Not

The Global Citizens International Movement welcomes the arrangements brokered by First Lady of the United States of America Melania Trump for a localized ceasefire in Oleshky to enable humanitarian access, the delivery of essential supplies, and the voluntary and safe departure of civilians.

Global Citizens recognizes Melania Trump’s significant personal contribution to securing these arrangements with the Russian and Ukrainian sides. The Movement regards this outcome as an important step toward improving humanitarian conditions in the city and providing its residents with the assistance they need.

In this regard, Global Citizens notes that the United Nations had previously drawn attention to the need for a localized ceasefire, the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian assistance, and the safe departure of civilians. The International Committee of the Red Cross, for its part, had reported maintaining contact with the Russian and Ukrainian authorities regarding the humanitarian situation in Oleshky. However, the practical arrangements for conducting a humanitarian operation remained unresolved for an extended period.

Global Citizens underscores the importance of direct engagement with both parties to agree on specific measures to protect civilians. The Movement considers that the effectiveness of international humanitarian efforts is measured by their practical results, above all in ensuring people’s safety and meeting their essential needs in a timely manner.

Global Citizens expresses deep regret at the continuing hardship faced by Oleshky’s residents and emphasizes the need to provide food and medical assistance without delay. Particular attention must be paid to the needs of older people, children, and those requiring ongoing care.

In this regard, the Movement calls on the Russian and Ukrainian sides to implement the arrangements reached fully and in good faith, comply with the agreed ceasefire terms, and ensure the safety of those taking part in the humanitarian operation. Global Citizens stresses that any departure of civilians must be strictly voluntary, that each person’s freely expressed wishes must be respected, and that no coercion is acceptable.

Global Citizens expresses its appreciation to Melania Trump for her mediation efforts and reaffirms its support for further constructive engagement on humanitarian matters. The Movement reiterates that protecting life, ensuring safety, and respecting human dignity must remain paramount, irrespective of existing differences between states.

Note: The Global Citizens International Movement will transmit this statement to the White House for information.