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Putin Apologizes for Azerbaijan Airlines Plane Crash Caused by Russian Air Defences
Overview of the Incident
On Wednesday, Azerbaijan Airlines flight J2-8243 tragically crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, after being diverted from southern Russia. The Embraer EMBR3.SA passenger jet had been en route from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Russia. During its flight, the plane was hit by Russian air defences, which had been activated to respond to Ukrainian drone attacks on several Russian cities.
Russian Air Defences and the Mistake
Russian air defences, which had been deployed to protect cities like Grozny, Mozdok, and Vladikavkaz from Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), mistakenly shot down the Azerbaijan Airlines jet. The aircraft was redirected hundreds of miles off course across the Caspian Sea, ultimately crashing near the city of Aktau. Preliminary investigations suggest that the plane was struck due to the interference of air defences, resulting in the complete loss of control.
Apology and Condolences from Putin
In response to the tragedy, Russian President Vladimir Putin offered a formal apology to Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev. Putin expressed his sincere condolences to the families of the victims and wished a swift recovery for the injured. The Kremlin confirmed that the call between the two leaders took place at Putin’s request.
Azerbaijan’s Response
Azerbaijan’s presidential office stated that the plane had been subjected to “external physical and technical interference” in Russian airspace, which led to the catastrophic loss of control. Azerbaijan is conducting its own investigation into the incident.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, with sources indicating that the plane was accidentally downed by Russian air defences responding to the drone threat. Authorities continue to assess the details surrounding the tragic event.