Surviving Occupation: A Ukrainian Family's Escape from Oleshky
The Samarsky family endured years of Russian military presence before a humanitarian evacuation.
1Years Under Occupation
The Samarsky family, including Serhii, Olha, and their son Vladyslav, lived in the Russian-occupied town of Oleshky for several years. They remained in the region to care for elderly parents who suffered from terminal cancer and stroke complications. Their survival was marked by constant fear, military surveillance, and severe infrastructure collapse.
2Military Presence in Homes
Russian forces occupied residential buildings, including the apartment complex where the Samarskys resided. Soldiers frequently launched drones directly from the building, turning civilian living spaces into active military zones. The family faced constant threats, including interrogations by the FSB, forcing them to remain largely confined to their home for safety.
3The Kakhovka Dam Impact
The June 2023 destruction of the Kakhovka dam caused catastrophic flooding throughout Oleshky. While the family's five-story building remained on higher ground, they provided shelter to neighbors who lost their homes and belongings. Estimates suggest approximately 500 residents died, though local volunteers reported that up to 2,000 people went missing.
4Daily Survival Struggles
Life under occupation meant enduring winters without electricity or heating, relying solely on gasoline generators and flashlights. Food supplies were critically scarce, with the last vehicle delivery occurring in May 2026. The family survived on home-grown zucchini and grain packages delivered by Ukrainian drones, carefully hiding all labels to avoid detection.
5The Risk of Evacuation
Leaving Oleshky required navigating mined roads and Russian checkpoints, which the family described as life-threatening encounters. Their evacuation in October 2026 was facilitated by a humanitarian mission mediated by U.S. First Lady Melania Trump. They were permitted to carry only one bag per person and their two cats during the journey.
6Psychological Toll of Control
The constant presence of armed, often intoxicated soldiers created an unpredictable environment where simple actions like grocery shopping became dangerous. The family lived in fear that speaking Ukrainian or wearing blue and yellow colors could trigger violent reactions. Vladyslav, the son, rarely left the apartment to avoid potential confrontations with military personnel.
7Forced Displacement of Children
Olha Liutikova, who worked at the Oleshky Specialized Boarding School for 14 years, witnessed the forced removal of children with disabilities. Investigations by the Reckoning Project and New Lines indicate that Russian forces displaced 84 disabled individuals from the facility. This systematic removal was part of the broader disruption of civilian life.
8Arrival in Free Territory
Upon reaching Ukrainian-controlled territory, the family traveled to Kyiv and stayed in a hospital. They now plan to reside in Hansen Town, a charitable housing project for displaced persons. Olha expressed profound relief at being able to walk freely in the capital without the constant threat of Russian military interference.
9Uncertain Future for Residents
Many civilians remain trapped in Oleshky, fearing that Russian forces will not honor ceasefire agreements. While Ukraine has expressed a willingness to continue rescue operations, the Kremlin has publicly ruled out further humanitarian missions. This leaves a significant population in a precarious state, waiting for potential liberation or future evacuation opportunities.
10Symbol of Persistent Hope
Despite their displacement, the Samarsky family maintains hope for a return to their hometown. They left behind a large three-meter Ukrainian flag, which they had previously waved in the city center to protest the occupation. They view this hidden symbol as a promise that they will eventually return to a liberated Oleshky.