Official statements from the Russian government or international diplomatic channels

Aliyev Blames Russia for Downing Azerbaijani Embraer 190, 38 Dead

Dec 29, 2024, 12:44 PM

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has accused Russia of being responsible for the crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 passenger plane near Aktau, Kazakhstan. The aircraft, en route from Baku to Grozny, was damaged by ground fire and electronic warfare while flying over Russian territory near Grozny, rendering it uncontrollable. The crash occurred on December 25 and resulted in the deaths of 38 people. Aliyev expressed disappointment with Russia's initial explanations, which suggested causes like a gas cylinder explosion or collision with birds, criticizing them as attempts to cover up the incident. He demanded that Russia admit guilt, punish those responsible, and pay compensation to Azerbaijan. The incident has intensified diplomatic tensions between the two countries.