Thousands trapped in occupied Ukrainian city as Caritas calls for safe evacuation
16 September 2026 - WELLINGTON - Caritas Ukraine is calling for urgent international action to help civilians trapped in the occupied city of Oleshky and surrounding settlements in Ukraine's Kherson region.
In an open letter released yesterday, the organisation says more than 6,000 people, including children, older people, people with disabilities and those who are seriously ill, remain unable to leave due to ongoing fighting, drone attacks and heavily mined routes.
Residents are reportedly facing severe shortages of food, drinking water and medicines, with communication disruptions making it difficult for families and aid agencies to track the wellbeing of those still in the area.
Caritas Ukraine says efforts to establish a humanitarian evacuation corridor have stalled despite Ukraine's stated willingness to facilitate a ceasefire and receive evacuees. The organisation is urging the Russian Federation to provide the security guarantees needed for civilians to leave safely and voluntarily.
Aftermath of shelling in Oleshky. Photo: Fabijanic Loredana/Caritas Ukraine
Reports from escapees reveal hellish life
First-hand accounts from those who have escaped describe constant drone surveillance, widespread mine contamination and growing difficulties accessing food and medical care.
One resident, identified as Andrii, told Caritas that six drone strikes hit his home during the occupation and that moving around the city had become increasingly dangerous.
"You have to walk slowly. You must never run," he said.
Caritas Ukraine says individual escapes cannot replace an organised humanitarian evacuation, particularly for children, older people and people with limited mobility.
The organisation is calling on governments, humanitarian agencies and the international community to help secure a humanitarian corridor and ensure access for aid organisations to deliver food, water and medical supplies to civilians who remain in occupied territory.
"People who wish to leave the dangerous area must be given the opportunity to do so voluntarily and safely," Caritas Ukraine said.