Azerbaijan Escalates Tensions with Russia Following Plane Crash

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Azerbaijan has intensified its standoff with Russia after the downing of an Azerbaijan Airlines passenger jet, which crashed on December 25 in Kazakhstan, resulting in 38 fatalities. According to President Ilham Aliyev, the plane was likely shot down by Russian air defense, a claim supported by Western experts who stated it sustained external damage. Following the incident, Aliyev accused Russia of attempting to "hush up" the matter, prompting an apology from President Vladimir Putin, who did not take responsibility.

Reports from the Azerbaijani government suggest preparations to appeal to an "international court" unless Russia admits culpability, with the news agency APA asserting that evidence of Russia’s involvement is being gathered. Tensions escalated further when Azerbaijan ordered the Russian House cultural center in Baku to close.

The situation reflects a broader trend of declining Russian influence in former Soviet states, as Azerbaijan, powered by its recent victories in regional conflicts and energy deals, grows bolder in challenging Moscow’s authority. Analysts indicate this could lead to continued turbulence in bilateral relations unless Russia takes corrective actions.

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