Oleški faces severe humanitarian crisis under Russian occupation

The town of Oleški in Ukraine’s Kherson Oblast is facing a severe humanitarian crisis under Russian occupation. Once home to approximately 24,000 residents, the population has dwindled to between 2,000 and 4,000 people, including about 50 children.

Residents are experiencing extreme shortages of essential goods. According to local officials, there is a total lack of meat, flour, oil, butter, and bread. The last successful food delivery to the town occurred on May 26. Attempts to deliver aid have been met with Russian drone attacks, including an incident on June 2 that killed two drivers.

The local healthcare system has largely collapsed. The town hospital lacks basic medical supplies, electricity, and running water, leaving doctors unable to provide anything beyond stopping bleeding. Following the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam in 2023, the facility has struggled to secure fuel for generators.

Evacuation remains nearly impossible as Russian forces have mined the town and its access roads. While Ukrainian authorities and international organizations have sought to negotiate humanitarian corridors, Russian forces have reportedly refused ceasefires, making it extremely dangerous for civilians to flee.