President Zelenskyy: Our goal is full integration of Ukraine’s Air Force with NATO

“Rustem Umerov also reported today on his communication with the Russian side: an exchange of 1,200 of our people who are currently in captivity is being prepared,” said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a traditional address to the Ukrainian nation on Aug. 3.

Dear Ukrainians!

Today, we thank our Air Force warriors – it is their professional day. Heroic people. Today, I personally expressed gratitude to them, presented awards, and also heard very important reports on the development of our Air Force, all of its components: combat aviation, our anti-aircraft missile forces, and radio-technical forces – every element is being given the strength it deserves. This year alone, our Air Force received Mirages – combat aircraft from France – as well as additional F-16s. And more are coming. Today, we also approved the next stages in the development of our combat aviation – new platforms and new steps in integrating our forces with the forces of partners. Our goal is the full and effective integration of the Air Force of Ukraine with NATO forces – something that will undoubtedly give Ukraine’s defense greater capabilities and, at the same time, make our country an even stronger part of Europe’s defense. The system for managing and developing our combat aviation is functioning in a comprehensive manner — within the Armed Forces, the General Staff, and the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine. I want to thank all the specialists involved.

Full text of the address: Office of the President of Ukraine