Azerbaijan Accuses Russia of Plane Crash; Demands Accountability

Azerbaijani President Aliyev makes bold allegations against Russia following AZAL plane crash in Kazakhstan, urging transparency and justice.

December 30, 2024
By M Muzamil Shami

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev accused Russia on Sunday of targeting an Azerbaijan Airlines passenger jet before its fatal crash, demanding Moscow admit responsibility and address the incident transparently.

The accusation came during an interview with state media at Baku airport, four days after the tragic crash of an AZAL plane in Kazakhstan that claimed 38 lives out of the 67 passengers and crew on board.

Azerbaijan alleges the aircraft was struck by a Russian air-defense system while attempting to land in Grozny, the capital of Chechnya.

Aliyev's pointed remarks against Azerbaijan's long-standing ally followed a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin's statement on the conversation omitted any acknowledgment of fault.

Allegations of External Interference

"The Azerbaijani civilian plane sustained external damage over Russian territory near Grozny and nearly lost control," Aliyev stated on national television.

He further claimed, "Electronic warfare systems disrupted our plane's controls, while ground fire caused significant damage to the tail."

Aliyev clarified that the attack was likely accidental but condemned Moscow for allegedly attempting to conceal the true cause of the crash.

Demands for Accountability

Aliyev criticized Russia's initial theories about the crash, such as claims of a bird strike, labeling them "absurd" and "detached from reality." He highlighted the damage to the plane's fuselage as evidence of external interference.

Azerbaijan officially demanded Russia:

1. Issue a public apology.
2. Acknowledge its role in the crash.
3. Punish those responsible and compensate the victims and their families.

Kremlin's Response

While Putin reportedly apologized to Azerbaijan, the Kremlin's statements offered no admission of guilt, suggesting only a "transparent investigation" into the incident.

The crash coincided with reports of Ukrainian drone attacks in Grozny, raising questions about the operational circumstances.

International Reactions

The United States has hinted at Russia's involvement, citing "early indications," while the European Union has called for an independent and thorough investigation.

The diplomatic fallout underscores rising tensions between Azerbaijan and Russia, challenging their traditional alliance and demanding accountability for the lives lost in this aviation tragedy.