Azerbaijan Accuses Russia of Involvement in Plane Crash Over Kazakhstan

President Ilham Aliyev claims Russian air defenses accidentally struck the Azerbaijan Airlines jet, killing 38, and demands accountability.

The Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 crashed on December 25 near Aktau, Kazakhstan, killing 38 of the 67 people aboard, with survivors alleging explosions during the flight.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev stated the plane was damaged by Russian air defense fire and electronic warfare systems while flying over Grozny, Russia.
Russia has not admitted responsibility but President Vladimir Putin apologized for the 'tragic incident' and confirmed air defenses were active due to Ukrainian drone attacks at the time.
The United States and Azerbaijani investigators have pointed to preliminary evidence suggesting the plane may have been struck by Russian air defenses, though investigations are ongoing.
Azerbaijan has demanded Russia issue a formal apology, acknowledge guilt, punish those responsible, and compensate victims and their families.