A humanitarian crisis is unfolding in the Kherson region where Russian troops have cut off all essential supplies to civilians in the city of Oleshky. Between 1,500 and 2,000 residents, including dozens of children, have been without food and medicine deliveries since May as Russia maintains a tight blockade. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha reports that residents are eating grass and weeds due to the lack of food, running water, and electricity, while Russian forces fire at supply attempts and block evacuation routes through mined roads.

UN relief coordinator Matthias Schmale reported that Russia continues to deny aid groups secure passage to Oleshky and the nearby town of Hola Prystan. Michael O’Flaherty, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, has called for a local ceasefire and the safe evacuation of the remaining population. Ukrainian national team fans recently highlighted the disaster by displaying a "Save Oleshky" banner during a football match against Hungary on Sept. 26.