Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev has condemned Russia's role in the recent plane crash, calling for accountability and transparency in light of the tragic incident that claimed 38 lives.
Azerbaijani Leaders Demand Accountability After Plane Crash with Russian Involvement
Azerbaijani Leaders Demand Accountability After Plane Crash with Russian Involvement
Azerbaijan's President expresses outrage over Russian response to the tragic air disaster, seeking justice for victims.
In a surprising outburst of criticism, President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan has confronted Russia regarding its perceived negligence leading to the downing of an Azerbaijani passenger airplane on December 25th. Following this tragedy, which has escalated tensions between the two countries, Mr. Aliyev met with surviving crew members and the bereaved families in a public display of solidarity. He voiced deep dissatisfaction towards Russian officials, stating that their attempts to diminish the incident have sparked “surprise, regret and rightful indignation” within Azerbaijan.
During the preliminary investigation, evidence suggested that the plane was shot down by Russian air defense systems, which Aliyev firmly believes could have been avoided had there been proper coordination between military and civilian authorities in Russia. He emphasized, “The blame for the fact that Azerbaijani citizens died in this disaster lies with representatives of the Russian Federation.”
Aliyev controversially chose to communicate his grievances in Russian, a strategic decision to address both the Russian-speaking relatives of the deceased and convey his message directly to Moscow. Despite President Vladimir Putin offering an apology for the “tragic incident” during a follow-up call, he has refrained from acknowledging any direct Russian culpability.
This incident marks a significant rift in Azerbaijan-Russia relations, showcasing Moscow's waning influence in the region, as Azerbaijan increasingly seeks justice for its citizens amidst growing national sentiment against Russia's actions.
During the preliminary investigation, evidence suggested that the plane was shot down by Russian air defense systems, which Aliyev firmly believes could have been avoided had there been proper coordination between military and civilian authorities in Russia. He emphasized, “The blame for the fact that Azerbaijani citizens died in this disaster lies with representatives of the Russian Federation.”
Aliyev controversially chose to communicate his grievances in Russian, a strategic decision to address both the Russian-speaking relatives of the deceased and convey his message directly to Moscow. Despite President Vladimir Putin offering an apology for the “tragic incident” during a follow-up call, he has refrained from acknowledging any direct Russian culpability.
This incident marks a significant rift in Azerbaijan-Russia relations, showcasing Moscow's waning influence in the region, as Azerbaijan increasingly seeks justice for its citizens amidst growing national sentiment against Russia's actions.
