An Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) passenger aircraft was shot down near Aktau, Kazakhstan, on December 25, 2024, resulting in the tragic loss of 38 lives. The incident has escalated into an international crisis. According to a Reuters report on February 4, 2025, the Azerbaijani government claims that the aircraft was targeted by a Russian Pantsir-S missile and is preparing to take legal action against Moscow in an international court.
Compensation Lawsuit and International Legal Proceedings
As reported by Azerbaijan-based APA news agency, the Baku administration has formally presented its conditions to Moscow regarding the downing of the aircraft. Officials state that Azerbaijan possesses fragments of the Pantsir-S missile used in the attack. The government has confirmed that evidence collection is ongoing, and preparations for filing a case in an international court are in progress.
The official statement emphasized, “Moscow must openly admit its guilt and take responsibility. Otherwise, Baku is prepared for the next steps.”
Cause of the Crash: Russian Pantsir-S Missile
Reuters, citing Azerbaijani government sources, confirmed that the aircraft was struck by a Russian Pantsir-S missile. Among the key evidence presented during the investigation are missile fragments analyzed by international experts.
Details of the Aviation Disaster
The crash involved an Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 operating flight J2-8243, which went down near Aktau, Kazakhstan. Of the 67 passengers and crew on board, 38 lost their lives.
Following the disaster, the aircraft’s black box was recovered and added to the investigation. Authorities announced that the black box will be analyzed in Brazil, while Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan continue to collaborate on the ongoing inquiry.
Russia’s Responsibility Under Scrutiny
According to Azerbaijani officials, the aircraft was targeted and struck during a drone operation over Grozny. The missile explosion caused severe shrapnel damage to the aircraft, leading to a critical failure. Although the pilots requested an emergency landing, Russian authorities allegedly denied clearance to land at Grozny, Makhachkala, and Mineralnye Vody airports.
Instead, the aircraft was directed over the Caspian Sea toward Aktau, Kazakhstan. Footage from the aftermath revealed that the aircraft had sustained significant damage and was losing control before impact.
Azerbaijan: “Russia Must Admit Guilt”
The Azerbaijani government appears determined to pursue an international legal process. Demanding an official admission of responsibility and compensation from Russia, Baku expects the case to gain widespread attention in the global arena.
This tragic event not only strains Azerbaijan-Russia relations but also serves as a significant test for international law and accountability.
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