Russian President Vladimir Putin has apologized to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev over the downing of an Azerbaijan Airlines plane in Russian airspace, which claimed 38 lives.
The Kremlin, however, refrained from explicitly acknowledging responsibility for the tragedy. In a phone call with Aliyev, Putin described the incident as a “tragic accident” that occurred when Russian air defense systems were repelling Ukrainian drone attacks on December 25. The plane, carrying 67 passengers and crew, was en route from Baku to Grozny when it crash-landed near Aktau, Kazakhstan.
Victims and Survivors
Survivors reported hearing loud explosions before the crash, with most fatalities among passengers from Azerbaijan, and others from Russia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. Miraculously, those seated near the rear of the aircraft survived.
Kremlin’s statement confirmed the aircraft had attempted to land multiple times at Grozny Airport but could not due to ongoing drone attacks.
Investigations
Azerbaijan’s transport minister has alleged “external interference” caused the crash, with damage visible inside and outside the aircraft. Investigations have been launched by both Azerbaijan and Russia, with assistance from Kazakhstan authorities.
The U.S. Department of Defense has stated that available intelligence points to Russian responsibility for the downing of the jet.
Following the incident, several Azerbaijani airlines suspended flights to Russian cities until further notice.
Global Reactions
The crash marks a grim moment in the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, with civilians becoming collateral damage in the conflict. International aviation experts have called for stringent measures to ensure the safety of civilian aircraft navigating conflict zones.
