Headline: Azerbaijan President Demands Russia Admit Fault in Fatal Jet Crash
Subhead: Ilham Aliyev says Azerbaijan Airlines plane was deliberately struck by Russia, leading to 38 casualties.
Jump Links:
- President Aliyev’s Statement
- Initial Russian Response
- Demands from Azerbaijan
- International Reaction
- Video: Witness Accounts from Survivors
Introduction
President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan has accused Russia of deliberately targeting an Azerbaijan Airlines passenger jet, leading to its crash in Kazakhstan. Aliyevstated that the plane was struck by a missile from Russia while flying over its territory, causing it to lose control and crash. The incident resulted in 38 fatalities out of 67 people on board.
In a candid interview with state media, President Aliyev revealed that the Azerbaijan Airlines plane was struck from outside while overflying Russia. He claimed that the plane suffered significant damage to its tail and was affected by electronic warfare systems, leading to a loss of control.
"We know that our civilian plane was shot down over Russia, near the city of Grozny," Aliyev said. "We also know that our plane was targeted by both electronic warfare and ground fire. The truth cannot be concealed."
Initially, Russia suggested that the crash might have been caused by a bird strike. However, Aliyev found this explanation illogical, expressing disappointment in Russia’s failure to acknowledge responsibility and demand transparency instead.
The President of Azerbaijan insisted that Russia must publicly apologize, acknowledge its involvement, and hold those responsible accountable. He also called for compensation to be paid to Azerbaijan, the injured passengers, and the families of the deceased.
"Russia must first apologize to Azerbaijan," Aliyev stated. "Second, Russia must acknowledge its guilt. Third, those responsible should be subject to criminal prosecution and appropriate penalties, with compensation paid to Azerbaijan and the affected passengers."
Both the European Union and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have called for a swift, independent, and transparent investigation into the matter. They emphasized the need to ensure that such tragedies are prevented in the future.
Video: Witness Accounts from Survivors
Next: Pesawat Azerbaijan Airlines yang Jatuh Bawa 67 Orang, 27 Selamat
