Ukrainian faith leaders plead for action as Russian blockade starves Oleshky

Ukrainian religious leaders are calling on Pope Leo XIV, global faith leaders, and the international community to take immediate action to prevent starvation in the city of Oleshky. In an appeal released Sept. 19, the Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations (UCCRO) described a humanitarian catastrophe in the southern Kherson region.

The UCCRO reports that more than 6,000 civilians, including approximately 200 children, are trapped in a gray zone near the front line under Russian occupation. According to the council, Russian forces have imposed a humanitarian blockade, with no food supplies delivered to the area since late May.

The Institute for the Study of War reported Sept. 17 that Oleshky has not received food deliveries since May 26. The institute stated that Russian forces have used deprivation as a weapon, placing thousands of people at risk of disease, starvation, and abuse. Residents are currently unable to flee due to drone attacks, mines, and the presence of occupation forces. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha also stated on Sept. 21 that Russian officials have repeatedly refused to allow humanitarian aid or evacuations.