2024-08-30 23:55:12
The President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree dismissing the commander of the Ukrainian Air Force Mykola Oleschuk, Reuters reported.
Oleschuk was removed from his post shortly after the Ukrainian military said an F-16 fighter jet crashed while repelling a major Russian attack on Monday, killing its pilot.
“I decided to change the commander of the Air Force […] I am extremely grateful to all our military pilots,” Zelensky said in his evening video address. However, he did not say what the reason for his decision was, but only mentioned that personnel must be protected and that strengthening of the command level is necessary.
The General Staff of the Ukrainian Army announced that Lieutenant General Anatoly Krivonozhka will temporarily perform the duties of Air Force Commander.
The Armed Forces of Ukraine did not disclose the reason for the crash of the plane. They indicated that the fighter crashed while approaching a Russian target. Oleschuk said on Monday that partners from the United States are assisting in the investigation of the incident, BTA reports.