Pilot Ivan Bolotov was killed in action

During the performance of a combat mission, 24-year-old fighter pilot Ivan Bolotov was killed. He had been defending Ukraine from the Russians for almost three years.

This was reported by the 831st Tactical Aviation Brigade on Facebook.

"We regret to announce the irreparable loss… Our comrade, a great patriot of his country - a fighter pilot of the Air Force Captain Ivan Bolotov did not return from a combat mission," the statement said.

Bolotov was 24 years old and is described as a skilled and experienced warrior who ruthlessly fought the invader on all his approaches and fronts.

"Pilots do not die, they remain forever in the sky... We express our condolences to Ivan’s family; he died in battle as a Hero. He will remain an example of great courage, resilience, and the pursuit of victory for us," the brigade reported.