Melania Trump Open to Visiting Ukraine to Witness Cease-Fire
Former first lady confirms role in brokering localized truce for Oleshky, expresses gratitude to Pope Francis.
Melania Trump has suggested she might travel to Ukraine to observe the localized cease-fire she said she helped broker for the city of Oleshky. When asked Saturday if she would visit the war-torn country, she responded, "We will see." President Trump, who was with her after they cast early votes for the midterm elections, added, "It could happen."
This marks the first time the former first lady has publicly addressed her involvement in securing a cease-fire between Russia and Ukraine for Oleshky, a city in the Kherson region reportedly on the verge of a humanitarian crisis. Trump stated she had spoken with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to facilitate the agreement.
"We talked. We signed the agreement," she told reporters. President Trump, who has been actively seeking a broader long-term cease-fire, commented that his wife's efforts were more effective than those of professional diplomats.
Oleshky, located a few miles behind the front lines, has a population of approximately 2,000 residents, many of whom are elderly or children. Reports indicate dire conditions, with residents resorting to eating grass.
Melania Trump announced on Friday that she had brokered a localized cease-fire to allow for the evacuation of residents and the delivery of humanitarian aid. While her work received international recognition, questions arose regarding the role of Pope Francis, who had also contacted both Putin and Zelenskyy urging a cease-fire shortly before Trump announced the deal.
"It is great to have Pope’s support, and they are starting a ceasefire on Oct. 27, and I hope everything goes as it’s planned," the former first lady said.
Despite some accusations from Democrats that Trump was taking credit for the Pope's initiative, both Russia and Ukraine confirmed her role. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov and Ukrainian human rights ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets acknowledged the former first lady's contribution.
Melania Trump has previously engaged in humanitarian efforts related to the war, including assisting in the reunification of 34 Russian and Ukrainian children with their families.