Kherson Exile: Ukraine Prepares for Mass Return of Oleshky Residents

Prime Minister Serhii Koretskyi told parliament on October 30 that 527 residents of Oleshky in Kherson Oblast are ready to return to Ukraine. He said the Ministry of Regional Development is coordinating the operation around the clock with the Office of the Human Rights Commissioner, the Kherson Oblast Military Administration, and the Ministry of Health. Preliminary medical examinations for the group were scheduled to finish by 2:00 p.m. local time on the day of the announcement.

The group consists of people currently living in Belarus. After passing initial health screenings, their data will go to the Ministry of Health. Officials will create individual medical records to document each person's condition. Koretskyi stated the goal is to receive the group as quickly and efficiently as possible.

The return route is complex. The residents will travel to Belarusian territory before crossing into Ukraine's customs zone. Once inside Ukraine, they will undergo secondary check-ups and receive primary medical care in Chernihiv and Kyiv oblasts. Authorities will provide initial necessities, including clothing and hygiene products, before moving the group to various regions for accommodation.

Koretskyi emphasized that all necessary premises have already been prepared. He noted that all involved agencies are working in close coordination to manage the logistics. The process involves multiple medical checkpoints and a coordinated transfer across international borders. The government is treating the return as a structured operation with defined stages of medical and logistical support.

The announcement came during government question time in the Verkhovna Rada. Koretskyi provided specific numbers and timelines to address questions from members of parliament. He confirmed the current headcount at 527 individuals. The medical examination deadline for the day was set at 2:00 p.m., marking the first step in the multi-day transfer process.