Ukrainian religious leaders appeal for aid to prevent starvation in Oleshky

The All-Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations (UCCRO) has issued an urgent appeal to Pope Leo XIV and the international community to prevent mass starvation in the Russian-occupied city of Oleshky. Located in the Kherson region, the settlement is reportedly under a complete military blockade by Russian forces.

According to the interfaith council, which represents Christian, Jewish, and Muslim communities, no commercial or humanitarian food deliveries have reached the area since late May 2026. An estimated 6,000 residents, including approximately 200 children, remain trapped in the frontline grey zone. Civilians face severe shortages of food, potable water, and essential medicines, compounded by the destruction of municipal utility networks, including electricity and gas supplies.

The UCCRO is calling on the United Nations, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and various global religious alliances to use diplomatic means to facilitate a humanitarian evacuation of civilians to Ukrainian-controlled territory.