Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on Saturday regarding the tragic crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) plane in Kazakhstan, offering an official apology and condolences to the victims’ families.
Details of the Incident
The Kremlin’s statement highlighted that the Azerbaijani passenger aircraft had made several attempts to land in Grozny, Chechnya, at a time when Russian air defense systems were actively responding to Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Grozny, Mozdok, and Vladikavkaz.
The Russian Investigative Committee has opened a case under Article 263 of the Criminal Code, which addresses air traffic safety violations. Preliminary investigations are ongoing with input from civilian and military experts.
Casualties and Aftermath
The plane, en route from Baku to Grozny, crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, on Wednesday. Of the 67 passengers and crew onboard, 38 people lost their lives, and 29 survived.
Azerbaijani representatives from the General Prosecutor’s Office are collaborating with Russian officials and Kazakhstan’s authorities to investigate the disaster. Coordinated efforts at the crash site continue to address the aftermath.
Diplomatic Response
Putin expressed his sincere condolences to the victims’ families and wished a speedy recovery to the injured. The incident underscores the complexities of regional air traffic management amidst heightened security challenges.
This tragic event highlights the necessity for enhanced coordination between nations during emergencies to prevent future incidents.
