Oleshchuk, who had held the position since August 9, 2021, was relieved of his duties on August 30, 2024.
In his evening address, President Zelensky expressed gratitude to Ukrainian pilots, engineers, and soldiers involved in air defense. He emphasized the need for strengthening at the command level and caring for military personnel. However, Zelensky did not provide a specific reason for Oleshchuk's dismissal.
Oleshchuk's removal comes shortly after the Ukrainian military confirmed the crash of an F-16 fighter jet, recently delivered to Ukraine. The incident occurred on August 26, during a defense operation against a large-scale Russian drone and missile attack. Ukraine's top pilot, Oleksii Mes, call sign "Moonfish," was killed in the crash.
A special commission established by Ukraine's Defense Ministry is investigating the cause of the crash. Oleshchuk noted that Ukraine has received a preliminary report from the U.S., which is contributing to the investigation. An unnamed U.S. defense official told Reuters that the crash "did not appear to be the result of Russian fire" and that other potential causes, including "pilot error" and "mechanical failure," are being explored.
Lieutenant General Anatolii Kryvonozhko, commander of the "Center" Air Command, has been appointed as the acting Air Force commander. (ILKHA)