Oleshky evacuees begin hospital discharge as aid efforts continue
Ukraine’s human rights commissioner says the first residents evacuated from the Kherson settlement are being released to stay with relatives, while a plan for the rest is set to launch this week.
By Bianca Herrera ·
Residents of Oleshky who were evacuated from the Kherson settlement are being discharged from Ukrainian hospitals. Dmytro Lubinets, the Ukrainian Commissioner for Human Rights, confirmed that the first group has completed their treatment. These individuals are moving in with relatives and acquaintances to resume their daily lives.
Upon reaching Ukrainian-controlled territory, the evacuees received essential supplies, including mobile phones, clothing, and personal hygiene items. Medical facilities helped them secure bank cards, tax identification numbers, and IDs. Staff from administrative service centres visited the group to issue certificates confirming their status as internally displaced persons. Pension Fund experts also assisted them in securing housing allowances.
Lubinets stated that temporary accommodation has been arranged for residents who do not have family to host them. Starting 9 November, transportation to their preferred regions will be organized. Specific arrangements are also in progress for people with limited mobility who require specialized care.
Olha Altunina, a representative of Lubinets, is accepting offers of accommodation from the public. Individuals can reach her via email to coordinate housing for those still in need of a place to stay.
The remaining evacuees continue to receive medical, social, and psychological support. Lubinets described the ongoing effort to ensure that those removed from danger receive continued care. He expressed gratitude for the public's willingness to assist in the process.
The humanitarian operation began after a ceasefire took effect on the night of 26 October. Local residents travelled to Russian territory on 30 October and were subsequently flown to Belarus. They crossed back into Ukraine by bus. The operation also included the evacuation of animals from the city, where a humanitarian disaster is unfolding.
Ukraine's defence forces reported evacuating 167 people from the right bank of Kherson Oblast during the ceasefire window. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine noted that Russian forces used the pause in fighting to rotate units, fortify positions, and strengthen anti-drone defences and logistics capabilities.
