Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Sunday formally appointed Lt. Gen. Anatolii Kryvonozhko as commander of the country's Air Force, nearly a year after he assumed the role in an acting capacity.

According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy announced the appointment in a statement on X, following a meeting with senior military and defense officials. He underscored the significance of continued development and effective coordination within Ukrainian combat aviation and air defense.

Zelenskyy highlighted the importance of collaboration across Ukraine's Armed Forces, General Staff, and Defense Ministry. He also noted the role of international partners and dedicated experts in strengthening Ukraine's military capabilities.

A decree confirming Kryvonozhko's appointment was published on the Ukrainian Presidential Office's website. Kryvonozhko had been serving as acting Air Force commander since August last year, after the dismissal of Mykola Oleshchuk.

Oleshchuk was removed from his position shortly after Kyiv announced the crash of a newly delivered F-16 fighter jet, which resulted in the pilot's death. At the time, Zelenskyy emphasized the need to strengthen Ukraine's forces and prioritize the well-being of its personnel.