Azerbaijan President: Russia’s Fire Damaged Crashed Plane | Latest Updates
In a shocking revelation, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev disclosed on Sunday that the tragic crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines plane in Kazakhstan was a result of external damage incurred on Russian territory. The investigation into this devastating Christmas Day incident is still ongoing, shedding light on the harrowing events that led to the loss of 38 lives.
Details Unveiled by President Aliyev
President Aliyev shared on state television that the Embraer 190 aircraft, en route from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Russia, met its untimely demise near Aktau, Kazakhstan. The flight recorder data is currently under scrutiny, but initial findings suggest that the plane faced external damage near Grozny, Russia, causing a loss of control. The tail section was severely affected by ground fire, while shrapnel holes punctured the fuselage, leaving the aircraft vulnerable.
Survivors’ Accounts and President’s Call for Accountability
Survivors of the crash recounted hearing explosions outside the plane during the flight, painting a terrifying picture of the chaos that ensued. President Aliyev expressed his disbelief in the intentional nature of the damage but criticized Russian authorities for deflecting blame with alternate theories. He urged Russia to take responsibility and issue a formal apology for the tragic incident, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in the aftermath.
International Response and Ongoing Investigation
Russian President Vladimir Putin extended his apologies to President Aliyev for the crash, acknowledging the gravity of the situation and expressing condolences to the victims’ families. Meanwhile, White House national security communications adviser John Kirby hinted at the possibility of Russian air defense systems being involved in the crash, highlighting the complexities of the investigation and the need for thorough examination.
As the world waits for more updates on this tragic event, the lingering questions surrounding the crash demand answers and justice for the lives lost. The collaborative efforts of international authorities and the unwavering determination of those affected will hopefully shed light on the circumstances leading to this heartbreaking incident.
