Russia says it clears over 300 explosive devices, mines near Oleshky

MOSCOW, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Russian engineering units have defused more than 300 explosive devices and mines on roads to the town of Oleshky in the Kherson region over the past week, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Monday.

Engineering units of Russia's Dnepr military group are conducting daily reconnaissance and clearance operations on the main roads to Oleshky, removing explosive devices and booby traps planted by Ukrainian drones, the ministry said in a statement posted on Russian social media MAX.

It added that Ukrainian forces had been shelling roads into Oleshky for more than two years and extensively using drones to target vehicles.

Oleshky is located on the left bank of the Dnieper River, opposite the Ukrainian-controlled city of Kherson. The town has been facing a severe humanitarian situation, with residents reportedly experiencing worsening shortages of food and other essential supplies amid continuous fighting.

Russia and Ukraine have recently agreed to a temporary ceasefire in the area to facilitate humanitarian aid deliveries and civilian evacuations.