Trump's week in review: Vows to use veto power, cut $4B aid to Israel and Melania brokers ceasefire

4. Melania Trump hosts officials from Russia, Ukraine as partial ceasefire is reached 

At a White House event Thursday, first lady Melania Trump announced that a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia had been implemented in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian city of Oleshky. During her remarks, the first lady highlighted her role as an “exclusive intermediary” in efforts to secure a ceasefire. 

“I was involved in every stage of the planning,” she said. “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.”

After revealing that “Russia and Ukraine signed agreements in both languages” on Oct. 23, Melania Trump thanked “both sides” for their “good faith efforts to define and implement all components of this sophisticated ceasefire” and introduced Kirill Dmitriev, special envoy to Russian President Vladimir Putin. In addition to Dmitriev, David Arakhamia of the Servant of People Party of Ukraine gave remarks at the event. 

The first lady was presented with the Order of Princess Olga First Class by the Ukrainian government as a gesture of appreciation for her efforts to secure a ceasefire in Oleshky. She expressed hope that the ceasefire would become “the loudest spark that grows into a lasting flame of peace.”