Ukrainian Evacuees From Oleshky Share Harrowing Survival Stories After Escape From Russian Occupation

Civilians who endured years in the combat zone of Oleshky, a city in southern Ukraine's Kherson region, have shared harrowing survival stories after a dangerous 24-hour evacuation journey. The evacuees, including elderly residents and families, described living under constant shelling, lack of food and medicine, and fear of Russian occupation forces. One woman said, 'We are coming from hell,' capturing the trauma of those who spent months hiding in basements. The evacuation, organized by volunteers and Ukrainian authorities, brought dozens to safety in government-controlled territory, where they reunited with relatives. The exodus highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Russian-occupied areas, where access to aid remains severely limited. As Ukraine prepares for further counteroffensive operations, the plight of civilians trapped behind front lines underscores the urgent need for safe corridors and international support. Their resilience offers a stark reminder of the war's human toll.