In Kharkiv, it was decided to name two streets in honor of the Heroes of Ukraine - Maxim Ustimenko and Alexey Messi. Igor Terekhov, the mayor of the city, announced this referring to 'Glyavkom'.
Both pilots died in the sky defending our country from the enemy. Maxim died on June 29 while on a combat mission, and Alexey did not return from his last flight on August 26, 2024. Both proved themselves as masters of their craft and devoted comrades. Their names will forever remain in the history of Kharkiv, where they began their journey in military education and where they trained as future officers. Details about the naming of the streets will be announced later, Terekhov added.
Information about Maxim Ustimenko
On the night of June 29, repelling an attack by the Russian Federation, first-class pilot Lieutenant Colonel Maxim Ustimenko died in an F-16 aircraft. The pilot shot down seven air targets but, having been injured, began to lose altitude. The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, posthumously awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine to the fallen pilot.
Information about Alexey Messi
Alexey Messi, as a pilot on the F-16, died on August 26 during a combat mission. He was an industrial pilot and a devoted warrior. The President of Ukraine also posthumously awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine to the deceased Colonel Alexey Messi.
Overall, it is worth noting that both pilots displayed tremendous courage and dedication in defending their country, and their names will forever be remembered in the hearts of Ukrainians.
Naming the streets in honor of Heroes of Ukraine Maxim Ustimenko and Alexey Messi in Kharkiv reflects the city's gratitude and the memory of the heroic deeds of these pilots who gave their lives for Ukraine. Their feats have become examples of bravery and valor for future generations, and their names will forever remain in the history of Kharkiv.