Russia remains silent on Azerbaijan Airlines crash responsibility

CNN reported that President Aliyev met with surviving flight attendants and families of deceased crew members, revealing that preliminary investigations indicate Russian air defenses hit the aircraft. Aliyev alleged that Grozny's airspace was closed only after the plane was struck.

Aliyev accused Russia of a cover-up, citing concealment of causes and false accounts as reasons for "justifiable anger." Despite his close ties with Moscow, relations have soured over this incident. Aliyev demands an apology, admission of guilt, and justice for those responsible. He asserted:

"I can confidently say that the guilt for the deaths of Azerbaijani citizens in this accident lies with representatives of the Russian Federation."

He questioned why the aircraft had to divert to Aktau for an emergency landing. Three days post-crash, Putin apologized for what he termed a “tragic incident” and mentioned a criminal case being opened—an indication close to accepting responsibility.

The black boxes from the crash site were sent to Brazil for analysis. The Astana Times reports some investigators are expected in Kazakhstan soon. Aliyev expressed confidence in learning initial results shortly:

“I am sure that in the near future we will learn the initial results...this will be an important moment in...the punishment of its perpetrators.”

On December 25, Flight 8432 from Baku to Grozny was reportedly struck by a Russian anti-aircraft missile aimed at Ukrainian drones. Forced to divert to Aktau, it crashed near there after crossing the Caspian Sea. The crash resulted in 38 fatalities among 67 occupants onboard.

Initial reports suggested a bird strike; however, evidence indicated otherwise. Azerbaijani investigators suspect a missile from a Russian Pantsir-S1 system hit it.