In a rare publicized apology, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed condolences to Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev over the Christmas Day crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines plane. The incident, which occurred in Russian airspace and claimed 38 lives, has raised questions about Russia’s accountability. While Putin acknowledged the tragic nature of the event, he refrained from admitting direct Russian responsibility.

The Azerbaijan Airlines flight J2-8243 was en route from Baku to Grozny when it reportedly came under fire from Russian air defense systems, forcing it to divert across the Caspian Sea. The plane ultimately crash-landed near Aktau in Kazakhstan. Of the 67 people onboard, most were from Azerbaijan, with a handful of passengers from Russia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. Survivors—primarily seated at the rear of the aircraft—reported hearing loud bangs before the crash, suggesting missile involvement.

Putin’s statement linked the incident to Russian air defenses repelling Ukrainian drone attacks in the regions of Grozny, Mozdok, and Vladikavkaz. However, he stopped short of admitting that the airliner was struck by Russian missiles. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded swiftly, accusing Russia of spreading disinformation and calling for a transparent investigation. Zelensky emphasized that the damage to the aircraft resembled that caused by air defense missile strikes.

Aviation experts have suggested that the plane’s GPS systems may have been compromised by electronic jamming and damaged by shrapnel from Russian missile blasts. Survivors’ accounts and the visible damage to the fuselage have fueled speculation. Azerbaijan’s transport minister referred to “external interference” as a contributing factor but did not directly accuse Russia. Meanwhile, US defense officials have suggested that Russian missiles were responsible for the downing.

Investigations are underway, with agencies from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Russia collaborating at the crash site. Despite this, the crash has already had significant repercussions. Several Azerbaijani airlines have suspended flights to Russian cities until further notice, citing safety concerns. Moscow’s refusal to directly acknowledge responsibility, coupled with the geopolitical tensions surrounding Ukrainian drone activity, complicates the narrative.

As investigations proceed, the crash highlights the vulnerabilities of civilian aircraft in conflict zones and underscores the urgency for greater transparency and accountability in aviation safety. Putin’s apology—while a notable gesture—falls short of providing the clarity demanded by Azerbaijan and the international community.