Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev is pressing Russia to take responsibility for a plane crash that occurred on December 25, which resulted in the loss of 38 lives. The aircraft reportedly came under fire from Russian air defenses during its approach to Chechnya, later crashing in Kazakhstan after diversion.
Azerbaijan Demands Accountability from Russia Over Fatal Plane Crash

Azerbaijan Demands Accountability from Russia Over Fatal Plane Crash
Azerbaijan's President calls for Russia to own up after a tragic plane incident claims 38 lives.
Azerbaijan's officials are seeking accountability from Russia regarding a devastating plane crash that occurred on Christmas Day, killing 38 passengers and crew. President Ilham Aliyev has voiced strong demands for Russia to accept responsibility for the incident. The flight, operated by Azerbaijan Airlines, was traveling from Baku to Grozny when it reportedly encountered fire from Russian air defense systems. This led to its diversion and subsequent crash near Aktau, Kazakhstan.
In a recent show of contrition, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed condolences to the Azerbaijani leader but refrained from admitting fault in the situation. Aliyev accused Russia of trying to obscure the truth behind the crash, presenting dubious explanations such as mechanical failures and bird strikes. He insists that Russia's immediate response was a "cover up" of the event and has demanded compensation for the victims' families.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of air travel in regions affected by ongoing military tensions. While President Putin acknowledged that the incident occurred amidst attempts to thwart Ukrainian drone attacks, he did not directly admit that Russian fire brought down the plane. Azerbaijan is determined to hold Russia accountable, underlining the unexpected nature of an attack on an allied nation. President Aliyev also honored the three crew members who lost their lives while ensuring that 29 individuals survived the crash.
As investigations continue, the relationship between Azerbaijan and Russia is under scrutiny, as Azerbaijan seeks justice for its citizens who perished in the tragic event.
In a recent show of contrition, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed condolences to the Azerbaijani leader but refrained from admitting fault in the situation. Aliyev accused Russia of trying to obscure the truth behind the crash, presenting dubious explanations such as mechanical failures and bird strikes. He insists that Russia's immediate response was a "cover up" of the event and has demanded compensation for the victims' families.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of air travel in regions affected by ongoing military tensions. While President Putin acknowledged that the incident occurred amidst attempts to thwart Ukrainian drone attacks, he did not directly admit that Russian fire brought down the plane. Azerbaijan is determined to hold Russia accountable, underlining the unexpected nature of an attack on an allied nation. President Aliyev also honored the three crew members who lost their lives while ensuring that 29 individuals survived the crash.
As investigations continue, the relationship between Azerbaijan and Russia is under scrutiny, as Azerbaijan seeks justice for its citizens who perished in the tragic event.