Espen Barth Eide
-
Ukraine and Russia begin local ceasefire around occupied Oleshky for humanitarian operation
Ukraine and Russia started a temporary bilateral ceasefire around occupied Oleshky in Kherson region, enabling aid deliveries, mine clearance and preparations for civilian evacuation. The pause began at 03:00 Kyiv time on October 27 and was due to remain in force until 22:59 on November 1. Both sides reported no violations through 17:30 on the first day.
-
Finland and Norway call Putin to convey Ukraine’s position ahead of Abu Dhabi talks
Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre initiated a 27 October telephone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin about Russia’s war against Ukraine and possible negotiations in Abu Dhabi. The call, coordinated in advance with Ukraine, was followed by a briefing for President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. European leaders welcomed the contact but assessed its prospects cautiously.