Key facts
- Russia accused Ukraine of 18 artillery strikes and over 120 drone attacks on Oleshky and surrounding roads since Oct. 19.
- A ceasefire in Oleshky was agreed to start Oct. 27 to allow aid delivery and evacuations.
- Conflicting start dates for the ceasefire were reported: Oct. 27 by Ukraine and Russia, and Oct. 29 by the White House.
Russia's Defense Ministry on Monday accused Ukraine of repeatedly striking the Russian-controlled town of Oleshky in southern Ukraine with artillery and drones ahead of a planned local ceasefire. The ministry claimed these strikes thwarted the delivery of food and medicine and prevented people from leaving.
Ukraine and Russia had previously confirmed agreeing to a ceasefire in Oleshky, set to begin on October 27, to allow for the delivery of aid and the evacuation of residents through humanitarian corridors. However, conflicting start dates were reported, with Ukraine and Russia citing October 27, while the White House indicated October 29. Russia also claimed its air defenses downed numerous Ukrainian drones, while Ukraine stated its defenses intercepted a large number of Russian drones.