Camilla Jessen
Ukrainian authorities begin mandatory evacuations near the Donetsk border as Russian forces push closer.
Authorities in Ukraine’s Dnipropetrovsk Oblast have ordered the mandatory evacuation of families with children from four villages near the eastern frontline, as Russian forces advance toward the region’s administrative boundary with Donetsk.
Governor Serhii Lysak issued the evacuation order on April 25, affecting the villages of Kolona Mezhova, Novopidhorodne, Raipole, and Sukhareva Balka in the Mezhova community.
The announcement was made public on April 28.
Russian troops are reportedly within 5 to 15 kilometers (3 to 9 miles) of the settlements, raising concerns of an imminent incursion. The villages lie near a key administrative boundary between Dnipropetrovsk and Donetsk oblasts, where hostilities have intensified.
Evacuees were instructed to bring essential items, including documents, cash, medication, and food supplies. Transportation is being arranged by local authorities.
Though Donetsk has been the focal point of Russia’s offensive since 2014—escalating dramatically after Moscow’s full-scale invasion in 2022—Russian ground forces have yet to enter Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. However, the region has faced regular attacks by drones, missiles, and bombs, resulting in substantial civilian casualties.
The evacuation comes as Russia’s military operations in eastern Ukraine continue despite renewed diplomatic efforts by Washington and Kyiv’s calls for an unconditional ceasefire.
President Vladimir Putin has proposed a three-day ceasefire from May 8 to 10 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe. Ukrainian officials have met the gesture with skepticism.