UPDATE: Russian President Vladimir Putin has officially acknowledged that Russia’s air defence systems were responsible for the downing of an Azerbaijani Airlines jetliner on December 25, 2024, resulting in the tragic deaths of 38 people. This marks Putin’s first admission of responsibility, a significant move aimed at reducing escalating tensions between Russia and Azerbaijan.
During a meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, Putin explained that missiles fired at a Ukrainian drone malfunctioned and struck the commercial aircraft as it approached the airport in Grozny, the capital of the Russian republic of Chechnya. The incident has stirred outrage and concern, especially as Ukrainian drones have increasingly targeted areas deep within Russia.
Putin described the missile strikes as a result of a “technical malfunction,” emphasizing that two missiles detonated a mere 10 meters from the passenger jet. He assured that the Russian government would take necessary actions to hold those responsible accountable and provide compensation to the victims’ families.
In a statement that underscores the gravity of the situation, Putin expressed,
“Of course, these words related to this tragedy, aimed at supporting — morally supporting — the families, do not solve the main problem: We can’t bring back to life those who died as a result of the tragedy.”
His comments reflect a somber acknowledgment of the human impact behind the geopolitical tensions.
The crash has strained the previously warm relations between Moscow and Baku. Tensions heightened not only due to the crash but also following the deaths of ethnic Azerbaijanis in a Russian city earlier this year and a series of arrests of Russians in Azerbaijan. Aliyev criticized Moscow for attempting to downplay the incident, stating it had to be addressed transparently.
Putin’s admission may pave the way for a diplomatic thaw, as he expressed hopes for restoring cooperation between the two nations. He stated,
“I hope that our cooperation not only will be restored, but continue in the spirit of our relations, the spirit of our alliance.”
Aliyev reciprocated the sentiment, expressing gratitude for Putin’s personal involvement in investigating the incident. He stated, “I would like to thank you for keeping the situation under your personal control.” The Azerbaijani leader highlighted the potential for a “broad and positive” bilateral agenda, emphasizing the importance of the messages being sent to their respective societies.
As both leaders navigate this sensitive situation, the focus now shifts to how effectively they can mend their fractured ties while ensuring justice for the victims of this tragic event. The world will be watching closely as developments unfold in the coming days.
This urgent update highlights a critical moment in regional diplomacy and underscores the human cost of geopolitical conflicts.
