Azerbaijan Airlines Crash: Blame Game Intensifies After Putin’s Apology
The tragic crash of Azerbaijan Airlines Flight J2-8243 near Aktau, Kazakhstan, on Wednesday, December 25th, 2024, has escalated into a diplomatic crisis, with Azerbaijan directly accusing Russia of accidentally shooting down the aircraft, resulting in the deaths of 38 passengers.
Azerbaijani President ilham Aliyev publicly stated on Sunday that the plane was “shot down by accident,” alleging that the aircraft experienced electronic jamming before being struck while approaching Grozny, a city in southern Russia. He further criticized Russia’s initial explanations, stating, “Sadly, in the frist three days we heard only absurd versions from Russia,” referencing claims attributing the crash to bird strikes or a gas cylinder explosion. Aliyev added, “We witnessed clear attempts to cover up the matter.”
While Russian President Vladimir Putin offered an apology to President Aliyev on Saturday for the “tragic incident,” the Kremlin’s statement stopped short of explicitly admitting responsibility, only mentioning the opening of a criminal investigation. This rare public apology, however, marks the closest Moscow has come to acknowledging culpability.
Aliyev’s demands are clear: He wants Russia to ”admit the guilt,” hold those responsible accountable, and provide a transparent account of the events. He emphasized, “Of course, there can be no talk of a deliberate act of terror here. Therefore, admitting the guilt, apologising in a timely manner to Azerbaijan, which is considered a friendly country, and informing the public about this — all these were measures and steps that should have been taken.”
Adding fuel to the fire, four sources familiar with the preliminary findings of Azerbaijan’s investigation, as reported by Reuters on Thursday, December 26th, independently corroborated the claim that Russian air defenses mistakenly downed the plane.
The incident occurred amidst a backdrop of ongoing conflict, with Ukrainian drones attacking several Russian cities. Flight J2-8243,en route from Baku to Grozny,diverted from its planned path due to this heightened military activity. The plane crashed in a fiery explosion, leaving behind a scene of devastation.
This incident raises serious questions about air safety protocols during times of conflict and the potential for unintended consequences of military actions. The international community awaits further details from the ongoing investigations to fully understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic event and its implications for international relations.
Reuters
Azerbaijan Demands Answers: unpacking the Azerbaijan Airlines Tragedy
tensions are soaring after a passenger plane was shot down near Grozny, Russia, tragically killing all 38 people aboard
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Following preliminary findings suggesting the aircraft was accidentally downed by Russian air defenses, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has publicly demanded accountability from Russia. In this exclusive interview,senior editor of world-today-news.com, Sarah James, talks to Dr. anna Ivanova, a leading expert on aviation safety and international law, about the unfolding situation and its potential implications.
Sarah James: Dr. Ivanova, this incident has sent shockwaves around the world. Can you walk us through the key developments so far?
Dr. Anna Ivanova: Absolutely,Sarah. The Azerbaijan Airlines Flight J2 8243 crashed on December 25th near Aktau, Kazakhstan, shortly after deviating from its planned route from Baku to Grozny. While initial speculation ranged from bird strikes to technical malfunctions,Azerbaijan now firmly believes the plane was downed by Russian air defenses,mistakenly targeted amid heightened military activity due to Ukrainian drone strikes in Russia.
Sarah James: It seems there’s a growing sense of frustration from Azerbaijan towards Russia’s response.
Dr.Anna Ivanova: Massively so. While Russian President Putin offered condolences, azerbaijan President Aliyev has publicly criticized Russia for what he perceives as obfuscation and delay tactics in the initial days following the crash.The lack of immediate, obvious acknowledgement was especially galling for Azerbaijan, considering the close relationship they share with Russia.
Sarah James: Given the potential involvement of Russia’s military, how is this impacting international relations?
Dr. Anna Ivanova: This incident has undoubtedly shaken trust between Azerbaijan and Russia, potentially damaging their strategic partnership. It also raises serious concerns about the collateral damage risk during times of heightened military alert. The international community is watching closely, eager to see how Russia responds to Azerbaijan’s demands for full accountability and a transparent investigation.
Sarah James: Looking ahead, what are the key questions that need to be answered?
Dr. Anna Ivanova: Several critical questions remain unresolved. Firstly, a thorough and impartial investigation is paramount to determine the precise cause of the incident and identify any lapses in protocol which led to this tragedy. Secondly, we need clarity on the chain of command and the specific decisions made within Russia’s defense apparatus leading up to the tragic incident.
and perhaps most pressing,is the question of accountability. Will individuals be held responsible for this egregious error? While apologies are a starting point, concrete measures, including potential reparations and reassurances about future safeguards, are crucial to rebuild trust and prevent such tragedies from recurring.
Sarah James: Dr. Ivanova, thank you for shedding light on this complex and tragic situation. it’s clear there’s a long road ahead for all parties concerned.