President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the nation, speaking about the work necessary for F-16s to appear in our skies and about an aviation disaster over Zhityomir region.

"Dear Ukrainians,

For 30 years now, on the last Saturday of August, workers and employees of Ukrainian aviation - both military and civilian - celebrate their professional holiday.

Pilots, engineers, everyone in the aviation industry, in aircraft manufacturing, in air transport. Everyone who makes Ukraine one of the strong countries. Because true strength is only in those states that know how to defend their own sky, respect their own aviation.

This year, Ukraine must do all necessary work for F-16s to appear in our skies. And this will be a new level of Ukrainian military aviation. And it will bring the return of civil aviation to Ukrainian skies closer, because it will bring victory and give Ukraine more security.

There is something to greet on this Aviation Day. There are things for which to thank. And I am grateful. We all are grateful.

But unfortunately, today alone these words are not enough.

Yesterday an aviation disaster occurred over Zhityomir region. Three pilots lost their lives. Among them - Andriy Pylschikov, call sign - Juice. A Ukrainian officer, one of those who helped our country a lot. Very much. My condolences to the relatives and friends, everyone who knew the boys...

The investigation into what happened is ongoing. It's too early to talk about details. Of course, all circumstances will be clarified. Of course, Ukraine will never forget anyone who defended free Ukrainian skies. Eternal memory!

I want to say a few more words today.

First - our warriors. On the Bakhmut front - everyone fighting in areas of Klyshchyivka, Andriyivka, Kurdyumivka. Avdiivsky direction. Mariinka. Melitopol direction - especially Robotyne. Thank you for your strength, warriors!

Second - our partners. As of today, more than 20 countries have joined the "Group of Seven" declaration on security guarantees to Ukraine. Our team is working further. Now almost 30 in total, including "The Group". There will be more.

We have started talks with Canada regarding a bilateral document on security guarantees. We previously started with the US and the UK. This will give Ukraine significantly more opportunities. Thank you to everyone who is working for this!

And third - our emotions. It's not worth letting emotions take over anywhere, especially among us, within society, between Ukrainians. Please be considerate of each other. And don't forget to thank everyone helping the defense, everyone helping Ukraine. We are defending our country, moving forward rationally and bringing victory closer - the victory of Ukraine.

Glory to Ukraine!"