Oleshky evacuees discharged from hospitals
Ukraine’s human rights commissioner says the first residents have left medical care and moved to relatives in Ukrainian-held areas.
By Ivan Dvorak ·
The first residents evacuated from the isolated village of Oleshky have completed their medical treatment and been discharged from hospital.
Ukrainian Commissioner for Human Rights Dmytro Lubinets confirmed the discharges on 8 November. The initial group of several hundred people arrived in Ukrainian-controlled territory after a complex transit route that included travel through Russian territory and Belarus. These early departures mark the first step in a broader support system for the displaced population.
Lubinets said support began immediately upon the evacuees' arrival. They received essential supplies, including mobile phones, clothing, and personal hygiene products. Medical facilities doubled as administrative centers where residents obtained bank cards, tax identification numbers, and identity documents. Staff from administrative service centres visited patients to issue certificates recognizing them as internally displaced persons. Specialists from the Pension Fund also assisted with housing allowances during the hospital stays.
Temporary housing has been identified for residents who cannot stay with relatives. Lubinets stated that transport to chosen regions and accommodation arrangements would begin on 9 November. Separate measures are being organized for evacuees with limited mobility to ensure they receive appropriate care and places to stay.
Those still in hospital continue to receive medical, social, and psychological assistance. Lubinets noted that the effort extends beyond removing people from danger to ensuring they receive subsequent care. He thanked those who have offered help and directed people able to provide accommodation to contact his representative, Olha Altunina.
The evacuation followed a ceasefire around Oleshky that took effect during the night of 26 to 27 October. Residents traveled to Russian territory on 30 October and were flown to Belarus the following day. From Belarus, they crossed into Ukraine by bus. Animals were brought out alongside the residents during the humanitarian operation.
Ukrainian defence forces reported that 167 people were evacuated from the right bank of Kherson Oblast during the ceasefire. Ukraine’s General Staff said Russian forces used the pause to rotate units, reinforce positions, improve anti-drone defences, and expand their logistical capabilities.
