29-12-2024 (MOSCOW) Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended an apology to Azerbaijan concerning the tragic aviation incident that occurred on 28 December, whilst carefully sidestepping direct acknowledgement of Russian involvement in the passenger aircraft’s crash.
During a telephone conversation with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Putin confirmed that Russian air defence systems were operational when the ill-fated Azerbaijan Airlines aircraft attempted to land in Grozny. The Kremlin’s subsequent statement described Putin’s “deep and genuine condolences” regarding the “tragic incident”, though notably abstained from confirming Russian military involvement.
Moscow had previously reported Ukrainian drone attacks on Grozny—the intended landing destination—on the day of the incident. However, Baku’s stance remained unequivocal, with President Aliyev explicitly highlighting evidence of “external physical and technical interference” whilst the aircraft was in Russian airspace.
The Azerbaijani president’s office detailed compelling evidence, including multiple perforations in the aircraft’s fuselage and passenger injuries caused by foreign objects penetrating the cabin mid-flight. Survivor accounts have consistently mentioned hearing an “explosion” during the landing attempt.
The incident has drawn immediate parallels with the MH17 tragedy, prompting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to urge international pressure on Russia to “stop the lies about this disaster”. The EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, echoed these sentiments, calling for a swift, independent international investigation.
The impact has reverberated through the aviation industry, with several carriers including flydubai and Israel’s El Al suspending their Russian operations. On Baku’s streets, the mood remains sombre, with residents expecting a more forthright acknowledgement from their Russian allies.
“The timing couldn’t be more tragic, with so many families entering the New Year in mourning,” remarked Rafiga Mammadova, a 64-year-old teacher in Baku.
As investigations continue, Putin has pledged Moscow’s commitment to an “objective and transparent” inquiry during discussions with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Meanwhile, Kyrgyz officials have reported that survivors currently receiving treatment in Aktau, Kazakhstan, will soon be transported home.
