By Ahmed Abdelsalam
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has awarded U.S. First Lady Melania Trump the Order of Princess Olga, 1st class, citing her significant personal contribution to humanitarian support for Ukraine and her work to help Ukrainian children, including those deported or forcibly moved from Russian-occupied territory.
Ceasefire enables evacuation of Oleshky residents
The presidential decree, dated November 2, highlighted Trump's pivotal role in organizing a six-day ceasefire to evacuate civilians from the Russian-occupied southern Ukrainian town of Oleshky. The pause in fighting, which began on Tuesday and concluded on Sunday, marked the longest local halt in hostilities since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. Nearly 800 people were evacuated during the humanitarian mission, according to Trump.
International figures support effort
Pope Leo XIV also spoke this month with Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, urging them to allow humanitarian aid into Oleshky and ensure the safe evacuation of civilians, the Vatican said. Russia's ombudsperson Yana Lantratova acknowledged the importance of Trump's personal involvement in the process.
Both sides seek Trump's approval
Zelensky previously expressed gratitude for Trump's role in halting fighting around Oleshky. Both Ukraine and Russia are eager to win the approval of U.S. President Donald Trump as he pushes for a broader peace settlement.
