Zelensky: Ukraine will never forget defenders of Ukraine's sky

For 30 years now, on the last Saturday of August, Ukrainian aviation workers, both military and civilian, have been celebrating their professional holiday, and there is much to be thankful for.

“Unfortunately, these words alone are not enough today. Yesterday, a disaster occurred in the sky over Zhytomyr region. Three pilots died. Among them was Andriy Pilshchykov, call sign Juice. He was a Ukrainian officer, one of those who helped our country a lot. A lot! My condolences to the family and friends, to everyone who knew the guys,” President Volodymyr Zelensky said in his evening address.

The investigation into what happened is ongoing. The details will be made public later.

“Ukraine will never forget anyone who defended Ukraine's free sky. May they always be remembered!” the President said.

As reported, on August 25, two L-39 combat training aircraft collided in a crash in Zhytomyr region, killing three pilots. The Air Force noted that a well-known pilot of the 40th Tactical Aviation Brigade with the callsign “Juice” was among the dead.