Ukraine's air force commander dismissed after F-16 crash

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has officially dismissed Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk.

The dismissal was announced just a day after the Ukrainian military reported that an F-16 jet crashed and its pilot died while repelling a major Russian strike on August 26, Caliber.Az reports per Ukrainian media.

"I have decided to replace the commander of the Air Forces. I am eternally grateful to all our military pilots," President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in his evening address.

He did not give a reason for dismissal but mentioned that personnel must be protected, and that there was a need to strengthen the command level.

Ukraine's General Staff said that General Lieutenant Anatoliy Kryvonozhka would temporarily perform the duties of commander.

The Ukrainian military did not provide a reason for August 26 crash but said the jet came down while it was approaching a Russian target. Oleshchuk said partners from the US were helping to investigate the incident.