President Volodymyr Zelensky appointed Lieutenant General Anatoliy Kryvonozhko as the new commander of the Air Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. It is known that he headed the Air Command 'Center' since 2015, and previously commanded a tactical aviation brigade from 2006 to 2008.
In 2023, President Volodymyr Zelensky awarded the general the Order of 'Golden Star' and conferred upon him the title of Hero of Ukraine. During his leadership of combat operations, more than 1160 air targets, over 100 ground targets, and one naval target were destroyed.
Moreover, Kryvonozhko received the Order of Bohdan Khmelnytskyi of II and III degrees and the Order of Daniil Galitsky.
Air Forces Day of the Armed Forces of Ukraine is celebrated on the first Sunday of August. In 2025, it will be on August 3. This holiday is dedicated to the servicemen and veterans who have served in the Air Forces. On this day, aviation equipment and the high skills of pilots are proudly demonstrated.
During the Russo-Ukrainian war, the Air Forces have shown great courage and skill, defending the sky over Ukraine and repelling enemy attacks. They are actively involved in combat operations, striking from the sky and demonstrating their bravery.
This news-style piece describes the appointment of Lieutenant General Anatoliy Kryvonozhko as the commander of the Air Forces of Ukraine, his professional journey, and achievements. The narrative is supplemented with the context of the celebration of Air Forces Day and the important role of the Air Forces in the Russo-Ukrainian war.