Putin apologises after Azerbaijani plane crash during drone attacks

Dec 28, 2024 - Russian President Vladimir Putin has apologised to Azerbaijan's leader, Ilham Aliyev, after an Azerbaijani plane crashed in Russian airspace, killing 38 people. However, the Kremlin has not acknowledged responsibility for the tragedy.

The crash happened as Russian air defences were responding to Ukrainian drone attacks, the Kremlin said. Several areas, including Grozny, Mozdok, and Vladikavkaz, were reportedly targeted by drones during the incident.

"Russian air defences were actively repelling Ukrainian combat drones attacking these regions," the Kremlin stated. But officials did not confirm whether the plane was mistakenly hit by Russian defences.

A routine flight turns deadly

The plane was travelling from Azerbaijan's capital, Baku, to Grozny in Russia’s southern Chechnya region when it was diverted over the Caspian Sea toward Kazakhstan. It crashed shortly after, leaving 38 dead and 29 survivors.

The sudden diversion and its link to the unfolding drone attacks remain under investigation. The Kremlin has called for a joint probe to uncover the cause of the disaster.

Diplomatic tensions simmer

The crash threatens to strain ties between Moscow and Baku, with Azerbaijan calling for accountability amid rising regional tensions. Analysts say the incident highlights the growing risks posed by Ukraine’s escalating drone campaigns on Russian territory.

Putin’s apology may help defuse immediate tensions, but questions remain over whether human error or technical miscalculation led to the tragedy.

Investigation underway

Authorities from both countries are working to piece together what happened. The investigation will focus on whether the chaotic airspace conditions played a role in the crash.