Russian President Vladimir Putin has publicly confirmed that Russia was responsible for shooting down an Azerbaijani Airlines passenger jet, a tragedy that has sent ripples of anger and disbelief through the international community. The revelation has intensified diplomatic tensions between Moscow and Baku, while global leaders demand transparency, justice, and accountability.
Russia Confirms Downing of Azerbaijani Passenger Plane
During a televised statement, Putin acknowledged that Russian air defense systems mistakenly targeted the Azerbaijani Airlines flight, believing it to be a hostile aircraft entering Russian airspace. The commercial jet was en route from Baku to Moscow when it was struck by a surface-to-air missile near the border region.
The incident resulted in the loss of all passengers and crew onboard, marking one of the most devastating air tragedies in recent years. Putin described the event as a catastrophic error, offering condolences to the victims’ families and pledging a full investigation into how such a fatal mistake could occur.
Demands for Accountability and Compensation
The Azerbaijani government has reacted with outrage, calling the incident an unforgivable act and demanding immediate answers.
President Ilham Aliyev convened an emergency meeting with top officials, vowing that Azerbaijan would pursue justice through international channels if Russia fails to take full responsibility.
In a strongly worded statement, Baku demanded not only an official apology but also financial compensation for the victims’ families and a joint international inquiry under United Nations supervision.
Putin’s Apology and the Russian Defense Ministry’s Statement
Putin expressed deep regret, emphasizing that the tragedy stemmed from a chain of technical and communication failures.
According to preliminary reports from the Russian Defense Ministry, radar systems had detected what appeared to be an unidentified aircraft entering restricted airspace. Believing it to be a threat, air defense operators fired missiles within minutes only later realizing it was a civilian jetliner.
Russia has since suspended several defense officials pending investigation, including the regional commander responsible for the sector where the missile was launched.
Global Calls for Investigation and Sanctions
The admission has drawn swift condemnation from around the world. The United Nations, European Union, and NATO have all called for a transparent, independent investigation to determine how such an incident could have taken place in a heavily monitored air corridor.
Human rights organizations have urged the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to lead a global inquiry, comparing the incident to the 2014 downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 over eastern Ukraine another tragedy involving Russian weaponry.
The United States, while stopping short of immediate sanctions, expressed “deep concern” and called on Moscow to fully cooperate with international investigators.
Public Mourning and the Human Cost of the Tragedy
Across Azerbaijan, the nation is in mourning. Families are still awaiting official confirmation and remains of their loved ones, while grief and anger mix in equal measure.
Azerbaijani Airlines has suspended all flights to Russia until further notice, citing security and safety concerns. Meanwhile, both governments have promised to collaborate in repatriating the victims’ remains and compensating affected families.
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