Residents of Oleshky have reported alarming incidents of intimidation by Russian soldiers, who allegedly threatened individuals with firearms over their Ukrainian TikToks and Instagram posts. Many locals expressed fear about evacuation, feeling they were misled and coerced into staying put. According to evacuees, around 3,000 to 4,000 people remain in Oleshky despite official estimates suggesting a lower figure. The ongoing climate of fear has kept many residents confined to their homes, as they worry about being forcibly taken by Russian troops.
