Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has dismissed the country’s air force commander, Mykola Oleshchuk, following the crash of an F-16 warplane during a Russian bombardment that killed the pilot. Zelenskyy emphasized the need to protect personnel and strengthen the army’s command level. Anatolii Kryvonozhko has been appointed as the acting air force commander in Oleshchuk’s place.
The dismissal came on the same day as Oleshchuk criticized a lawmaker who claimed the F-16 was downed by a Patriot air-defense system, receiving support from US arms manufacturers. Oleshchuk accused the lawmaker of defaming the air force and hoped she would face legal consequences. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, with US experts assisting in the process.
The F-16s, which were delivered to Ukraine at the end of last month, are considered an opportunity to counter Russia’s air superiority, but not a game-changer due to Russia’s extensive air force and advanced defense systems. The crash marked the first reported loss of an F-16 in Ukraine, with military analysts conducting a detailed analysis to understand the circumstances and responsibility.
Zelenskyy’s decision to dismiss Oleshchuk reflects the government’s commitment to protecting its personnel and strengthening the country’s defense capabilities amidst ongoing conflict with Russia. The investigation into the F-16 crash is ongoing, with a focus on determining the cause and ensuring accountability for those responsible.
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