Russia

Azerbaijan Demands Apology and Accountability from Russia Over Passenger Plane Downing

Azerbaijan has formally demanded an apology from Russia following the tragic downing of an Azerbaijani civilian passenger plane, which claimed the lives of 38 people.

Azerbaijani MP Rasim Musabeyov, a member of the International Relations Committee, emphasized that Moscow must assume full responsibility for the incident, calling for legal accountability for those involved and compensation for victims’ families.

The Embraer 190 passenger jet, operated by Azerbaijani Airlines, crashed on December 25 near the Kazakh city of Aktau.

Azerbaijani officials allege that the plane was struck by a Russian Pantsir air defense system after being diverted into Russian airspace amid heightened military operations.

Ukrainian intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov has supported these claims, stating that Russian air defenses were to blame.

“Russia Cannot Evade Responsibility”

Musabeyov criticized Russian efforts to obscure details of the incident, calling on Moscow to address the tragedy transparently.

He drew parallels to Azerbaijan’s handling of a similar event in 2020 when a Russian military helicopter was mistakenly shot down during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

Azerbaijan at the time issued an immediate apology, held those responsible accountable, and compensated the victims’ families.

“Civilized international relations demand accountability. Moscow must take similar actions to preserve bilateral relations,” Musabeyov stated.

He also emphasized that military operations near civilian air traffic corridors must include safeguards such as airspace closures and public alerts to prevent such tragedies.

Incident Details Emerge

Reports from Russian Telegram channel VChK-OGPU, which has ties to the Federal Security Service (FSB), revealed further details about the incident. According to the channel, the Embraer 190 was likely hit by air defense systems in Chechnya’s Naursky district.

Two Pantsir air defense units had been deployed near Grozny Airport just weeks earlier, where electronic jamming systems were reportedly in operation to counter a drone attack. The resulting GPS signal disruption forced the passenger plane off course.

Three drones were intercepted in the area on the morning of the crash. The passenger plane, diverted toward Russian airspace, was reportedly struck near the village of Nikolaevskoye.

Initially, the flight crew believed the damage was caused by a bird strike, but the flight commander later confirmed that he was only informed of the airspace closure—part of Russia’s “Carpet” plan—after the aircraft encountered difficulties and requested diversion.

Diplomatic and Operational Fallout

Azerbaijani officials have called for a thorough investigation, warning that Russia’s failure to address the issue appropriately could strain diplomatic relations.

High-ranking officials and global media outlets have pointed to Moscow’s responsibility, urging an overhaul of air defense protocols in militarized zones with civilian air traffic.

Musabeyov’s remarks underscore the necessity of accountability, stating, “Russia’s handling of this incident will set a precedent for its adherence to international norms and civilian safety in conflict zones.”

As calls for justice mount, the incident has reignited debate over the dangers posed by military operations near civilian infrastructure and the obligations of nations to ensure safety and transparency.

 

Gabriel Peters

Leave a Comment

Recent Posts

Paris Resident Wins Over $217K in LOTTO MAX Prize Ahead of Retirement

Before sharing the news with her family, Schram waited until she had the cheque in… Read More

17 hours ago

RER A and B Services Face Major Disruptions on February 14 Due to Driver Strike

RATP will release its official traffic forecast for the strike this Friday evening, but significant… Read More

18 hours ago

PSG Reportedly Eye Vinicius Jr. Amid Uncertainty Over Real Madrid Future

While the 24-year-old remains a key figure for Los Blancos, questions are being raised about… Read More

2 days ago

Paris to Munich in a Flash: New Direct Train Line Set for 2026 Launch

The new service, a collaboration between France's SNCF and Germany's Deutsche Bahn (DB), is expected… Read More

2 days ago

Macron Urges AI Firms to Choose France as Paris Hosts Global Summit

Speaking at the two-day event, which brings together global leaders and tech executives, Macron emphasized… Read More

2 days ago

Violette Dorange Becomes Youngest Sailor to Complete Vendee Globe

Violette Dorange finished 25th in the Vendée Globe on Sunday, completing the race in 90… Read More

3 days ago