Zelensky thanks F-16, Mirage pilots for intercepting significant number of Russian cruise missiles

26.05.2025 22:45

Ukrinform

During a meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief's Staff, President Volodymyr Zelensky commended the professional work of Ukrainian pilots who intercepted a substantial number of cruise missiles during a recent large-scale Russian missile attack.

The head of state said this in his nightly video address, according to Ukrinform.

"I want to recognize our defenders of the skies. In recent days, our fighter pilots — those flying F-16s and Mirage jets — performed exceptionally well. They were responsible for shooting down a significant number of cruise missiles. Thank you!" he said.

Zelensky also praised the skilled efforts of personnel from several Ukrainian anti-aircraft missile brigades, including the 11th, 96th, 138th, 208th, and 301st brigades.

"Thank you for your precision! And thanks to all the units defending our skies: mobile fire groups, army aviation helicopters, electronic warfare teams. Thank you to everyone fighting for Ukraine!" he said.

Ukraine's air defense forces downed nine Kh-101 cruise missiles and neutralized 288 out of 355 drones launched by Russia during an attack on the night of May 25-26.

Earlier, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha thanked the Netherlands for its steadfast support of Ukraine following the delivery of the final batch of F-16 fighter jets.