Ukraine claims major victory: Downs Three Russian Su-34 Fighters in aerial showdown

President Zelensky revealed discussions with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte regarding the delivery of F-16 jets to Ukraine.

In a dramatic turn of events, Ukraine’s military has reported the successful downing of three Russian Su-34 fighter-bombers in the southern region of the country. Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk revealed that the aerial engagement occurred around noon on Friday, marking a significant victory for the Ukrainian armed forces.

Adding a unique twist to the announcement, Oleshchuk mentioned a chilling message discovered on a downed Russian drone that read, “Die, bitches.” Responding to the provocative message, he declared on Telegram, “Great idea! Here is our response!”

In his nightly address, President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude to the soldiers responsible for the downing of the Russian fighters in the Kherson region. “It’s the gain of our Air Force and the direct action of the Odesa Anti-Aircraft Missile Brigade. Thank you, guys!” he remarked, reaffirming Ukraine’s commitment to responding decisively to any aggression.

Zelensky further issued a stern warning, stating, “And may every Russian pilot be well aware of our response to every Russian killer—none of them will go unpunished.”

While the Kremlin has yet to comment on Ukraine’s claims, Russian war bloggers, including Fighterbomber, acknowledged potential losses, likely attributed to the Patriot missile air-defense system.

The Voenniy Osvedomitel (“Military Informant”) channel on Telegram reported “losses among Su-34 bombers,” specifying their use in dropping glide bombs on the Ukrainian bridgehead in Krynky on the Russian-controlled east bank of the Dnipro River.

In a separate development, President Zelensky revealed discussions with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte regarding the delivery of F-16 jets to Ukraine. The Netherlands has announced its preparations to send 18 US-made F-16 combat jets pledged to Ukraine, demonstrating solidarity at a time when Kyiv faces mounting pressure on multiple fronts.

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Zelensky disclosed, “From political decisions regarding the provision of aircraft, we have moved on to training pilots and engineers, and now we are implementing the technical part—the actual delivery of F-16 jets.” The delivery is part of a broader international effort, with the US-approved contributions from Denmark and the Netherlands, totaling up to 61 jets, once Ukrainian pilots have completed their training.