F-16 Pilot Maxim Ustymenko’s Death: Ukraine Calls for Investigation and Reinforced Defense
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed deep condolences following the tragic death of F-16 pilot Maxim Ustymenko during another large-scale Russian air assault. By order of the head of state, government agencies have been tasked with thoroughly investigating the circumstances of this irreparable loss, as every soldier’s life is vital for Ukraine’s defense system. Amid recent attacks where the enemy systematically targets infrastructure and Ukrainian cities with missile and drone strikes, Zelensky emphasized the urgent need to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense capabilities. The president pointed out that the Ukrainian armed forces are doing everything possible to protect the sky and called on international partners to supply modern air defense systems, particularly from the United States, to counteract Russian missile and aircraft attacks. According to the Ministry of Defense and military experts, this week alone, Russia launched over 1,270 drones and 114 missiles of various types, including Kalibr, Kinzhal, Iskander-M, Kh-101, and S-300 systems. Ukrainian forces have successfully destroyed approximately 475 air targets, demonstrating significant resilience. Unfortunately, air strikes have caused damage to critical infrastructure in Lviv region, while in Ivano-Frankivsk, one woman was injured. In Smila, Cherkasy region, six people were wounded, three residential buildings damaged, and the National University of Food Technologies’ college suffered substantial destruction. In Poltava, main and suburban railway stations were damaged, complicating humanitarian and logistical operations. Authorities urge everyone to unite efforts to bolster Ukraine’s defenses and to follow safety recommendations aimed at bringing the victory closer and stopping the aggression.