Ukraine accuses Russia of downing Azerbaijan Airlines plane in Kazakhstan.

In an unexpected turn of events, the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine has pointed to Russia as responsible for the tragic accident of an Azerbaijan Airlines plane in Kazakhstan, where 38 people lost their lives and around 30 were injured. The aircraft, an Embraer 190, was on a routine flight connecting Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, with Grozny in Chechnya. This incident has reignited tensions between the two countries, occurring against a backdrop of conflicts and hostilities in the region.

As the investigation unfolds, the head of the Center for Countering Disinformation at the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, Andri Kovalenko, has issued a strong statement. According to his claims, the plane was "shot down by a Russian air defense system" during a delicate moment when threats of Ukrainian attacks in the Grozny area were being reported. Such accusations are not new, but they take on a more serious dimension given the tragic nature of the incident.

The flight, which had around 61 passengers, made an emergency landing request two hours after takeoff, which was denied due to foggy conditions in Grozny. The aircraft was then redirected to Makhachkala and later to Aktau, where the tragic outcome occurred. Initial investigations suggest that the aircraft may have been affected by either a possible attack or accidental incidents such as bird strikes or an explosion of an oxygen cylinder on board.

Despite the contradictory accounts that are beginning to emerge, the Kazakh government has issued a statement committing to thoroughly investigate the causes of the accident. The diversity of nationalities on board—37 Azerbaijani citizens, six Kazakhs, three Kyrgyz, and 16 Russians—adds an international component to the tragedy, increasing pressure on authorities to clarify what happened and ensure accountability.

For its part, Azerbaijan has declared a national day of mourning in response to this tragedy, highlighting the emotional and social impact that the disaster has had on the country. The families of the victims are seeking answers and justice, as discussions about air safety in the region intensify, especially in the context of current political tensions.

Ukraine's accusation regarding the downing of the plane raises serious questions about the responsibility of Russia's air defense systems and the effectiveness of security protocols in the region. "Russian authorities should have closed the airspace over Grozny," Kovalenko stated, emphasizing the lack of action that could have prevented this tragedy.

Meanwhile, the Russian government has not officially commented on the accusations, but the situation is far from calming down. This incident could escalate existing tensions between Ukraine and Russia, especially at a time when the conflict between the two countries is already at its peak.

The international community is closely watching how these events unfold, hoping that clear answers will be obtained regarding the nature of the accident and the responsibilities involved. As more data and testimonies are collected, investigations must be thorough and transparent to ensure justice for the victims and to prevent similar incidents in the future.

In conclusion, the Azerbaijan Airlines plane accident is not only a human tragedy but also an episode that reflects the complex geopolitical relations in the region. Pressure on all parties involved is increasing, and the coming days will be crucial for the resolution of this dark chapter. The victims deserve answers, and the international community has a responsibility to demand clarity and justice.