Putin Expresses Regret Over Fatal Azerbaijan Airlines Plane Crash

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has formally apologized to Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev following the tragic crash of Azerbaijan Airlines Flight J2-8243, which resulted in the deaths of 38 individuals on board. The aircraft went down on December 25 near Aktau, Kazakhstan, after diverting from its original route in southern Russia due to reported Ukrainian drone activity.

As investigations continue, Azerbaijan Airlines cited "external physical and technical interference" as a potential cause behind the crash. Reports from various sources suggest that the plane may have been struck by a Russian missile, which Russia has denied, stating that speculation is premature until the investigation is complete. The Kremlin confirmed that air defense systems were active in the area due to ongoing Ukrainian drone strikes but did not acknowledge any responsibility for the incident.

In response to the tragedy, Azerbaijan Airlines has suspended all flights to Russian cities effective immediately, starting with routes to various destinations including Sochi and Makhachkala. This incident has raised concerns about air safety in conflict zones, marking a significant event in the ongoing tensions involving Russia, Ukraine, and Azerbaijan.

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