Zelenskyy dismisses the leader of Ukraine's Air Force department
The first part of this week saw an unfortunate incident where an F-16 fighter jet crashed over Ukraine. Some parliamentarians intimated a potential friendly fire accident. Following this, President Zelensky decided to part ways with his Air Force chief, Nikolai Oleshuk. The announcement of Oleshuk's termination was made public on the president's online platform. During his nightly address, Zelensky expressed his concern for the safety of the people, soldiers, and military personnel, emphasizing the need for strengthening the Ukrainian military's leadership. The president also acknowledged the significant contributions made by the Air Force members who have positively impacted Ukraine.
Oleshuk had been leading the Ukrainian Air Force since 2021. He will be temporarily replaced by Lieutenant General Anatoly Kryvonos, previously responsible for Air Force operations in central Ukraine.
The dismissal of Kryvonos transpired shortly after the unfortunate incident involving one of the few Western-supplied F-16 fighter jets. Data suggests it crashed during a massive Russian-led drone and missile assault. However, Ukrainian politicians and activists have not entirely dismissed the possibility of a friendly fire scenario.
Right before his ousting, Oleshuk expressed his discontent towards MP Marina Besugla, a Defense Committee member, on Telegram, over her public skepticism about the crash's official explanation. He accused her of aiding Russian propaganda and threatened legal action. However, he vowed to conduct a thorough investigation, with the United States' cooperation as the manufacturer country.
The F-16 pilot lost his life after the jet crashed on Monday over Ukraine. It seems to be the inaugural F-16 loss for Kyiv in the ongoing Russian conflict. The aircraft were supplied to Ukraine towards the end of July by its international allies. Reports suggest that at least six such aircraft were provided by European nations.
After the Air Force chief's dismissal, President Zelensky emphasized the importance of strengthening the Ukrainian military's leadership, highlighting the need for increased military stability. The military will temporarily be led by Lieutenant General Anatoly Kryvonos, who previously oversaw Air Force operations in central Ukraine.
