Zelenskyy Ousts Air Force Commander Following F-16 Crash Amid Russian Bombardment

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed Air Force Commander Lt. Gen. Mykola Oleshchuk after an F-16 warplane crash during a Russian attack. The move underscores the need to protect military personnel and strengthen command. Meanwhile, a Russian strike on Kharkiv killed five civilians and injured 47, prompting calls for unrestricted military capabilities.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy fired Air Force Commander Lt. Gen. Mykola Oleshchuk following an F-16 fighter jet crash during a Russian bombing raid. The incident calls for improved protection of personnel and enhanced military command capabilities.

Following Zelenskyy's order, U.S. experts have joined the Ukrainian investigation into the crash. Concurrently, a Russian airstrike in Kharkiv resulted in five civilian deaths, including a 14-year-old girl, and 47 injuries. Governor Oleh Syniehubov reported that the bombs struck multiple locations, including a 12-story apartment building.

Zelenskyy emphasized the need for Western military support to target Russian bases and prevent further attacks. The crash is the first reported loss of an F-16 in Ukraine, generating significant scrutiny and criticism from within and beyond the Ukrainian administration.

(With inputs from agencies.)