Melania Trump calls for full peace deal between Russia and Ukraine, welcomes reps from each nation to White House

Good morning and welcome. Oleshki will forever unite the brave individuals gathered at the White House today. We have chosen humanity over war. Undeniably, the lives of innocent people must transcend the division of war. I hope Oleshki inspires greater peace. Every significant transformation begins with a small spark. What matters is not the modesty of this beginning, but the determination to turn into something extraordinary. Now we must use the courage we brought to Oleshki to find common ground through a shared concern for the suffering of innocent people. Together we can create something more enduring than a temporary ceasefire. Let us use, let us see Oleshki. As a spark in a world of darkness, capable of illuminating the best in humanity, build a powerful flame of peace visible to the world, ignite hope, foster cooperation, and brighten a path toward lasting peace. I became aware of the severity of the humanitarian crisis in Oleshki in September. Recognizing the urgency, I acted immediately and directed my representative Mark Backman to engage with Russia and Ukraine on my behalf to pursue peace in Oleshki. Both nations welcomed my participation, acknowledging that previous efforts to establish a ceasefire in the region had not succeeded. Russia and Ukraine honor our relationship. And agreed to work with me in the capacity of exclusive intermediary to establish a ceasefire in Oleshki and the surrounding Kursk region. Our shared objective was to deliver critical humanitarian aid to Oleshki residents and establish a safe evacuation route for civilians. My role as an exclusive intermediary was memorialized in written agreements drafted and signed by both Russia and Ukraine. Mark and I began our work using the communication channels we had previously established to reunite children with their families in Russia and Ukraine. Humanitarian, military and government officials from Russia and Ukraine work diligently To coordinate every aspect of the operation, I was involved in every stage of the planning. I reviewed the mining plans, aerial images, assessed roadways and discussed evacuation routes, hospital access, vehicles and medical resources. I was made aware of the preferred dates and timing of the operation. My communication with Russia and Ukraine was extensive, professional, detailed, and highly cooperative. Mark and I did everything possible to support both nations in advancing their shared commitment to reach a ceasefire in Oleshki. We fulfilled our responsibilities at every stage, collaborating with Russia and Ukraine teams through completion. Russia and Ukraine signed agreements in both languages on Friday, October 23rd, 2026. I commend both sides for your good faith efforts to define and implement all components of this sophisticated ceasefire.