Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev made striking remarks regarding the accident involving an Azerbaijan Airlines plane in Aktau. Aliyev stated that the plane was rendered uncontrollable through radio-electronic interference and was then severely damaged by ground fire. “Today, we can clearly say that our plane was shot down by Russia,” he declared.
Aliyev: “No One Could Have Imagined Our Plane Would Be Fired Upon in a Friendly Country”
Referring to the crash of the plane en route from Baku to Grozny on December 25, Aliyev said, “No one could have imagined that our plane would be fired upon from the ground in a country that we consider a friend. However, we clearly witnessed attempts by some Russian authorities to cover up this incident with claims such as a gas cylinder explosion or a flock of birds,” he emphasized.
Black Box Analysis Awaited
Aliyev noted that the preliminary findings regarding the accident are based on reasonable facts. “Our plane lost control near Grozny due to external damage. We know that it was rendered uncontrollable by interference using radio-electronic warfare tools. The tail section suffered heavy damage from ground fire, and the fuselage being riddled with holes entirely disproves the ‘flock of birds’ claim. All details will become clear after the black boxes are examined,” he stated.
Clear Demands to Russia
Aliyev stressed that Azerbaijan had conveyed its demands clearly. “We expect an official apology from Russia, an admission of guilt, and the prosecution of those responsible. Additionally, compensation must be paid to the Azerbaijani state and the injured parties,” he said. He acknowledged that initial demands were being addressed but emphasized that the process would be closely monitored.
Flights Suspended
Aliyev reminded that flights to seven cities in Russia had been indefinitely suspended by AZAL due to safety concerns. “This decision was made to ensure the safety of our passengers. This situation will not change until security issues in Russian airspace are resolved,” he noted.
Call for an International Investigation
Aliyev underlined the necessity of an impartial international investigation into the plane’s downing. He categorically rejected the Interstate Aviation Committee proposed by Russia, stating, “This committee predominantly consists of Russian officials. For a fair investigation, support must be obtained from a reliable and neutral institution,” he insisted.
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