Big news drop! 🤯 On October 9, President Vladimir Putin admitted that two Russian missiles detonated beside an Azerbaijan Airlines plane last December, killing 38 people. Flight J2-8243, flying from Baku to Grozny, diverted from its southern Russia route amid reported Ukrainian drone attacks and crash-landed near Aktau in Kazakhstan on December 25, 2024.
In his most candid admission to date, Putin offered his apologies to President Ilham Aliyev and promised compensation for the victims' families. He said the tragedy unfolded after Ukrainian drones entered Russian airspace, triggering air defenses—and tragically, two missiles detonated too close to the civilian jet.
Here's the quick breakdown:
- Flight: J2-8243, Baku → Grozny
- Date: December 25, 2024
- Location: Near Aktau, Kazakhstan
- Fatalities: 38 passengers and crew
- Cause: Two Russian missiles detonated beside the plane after Ukrainian drones breached airspace
Why it matters: This rare acknowledgment by Moscow signals a move toward accountability. The pledged compensation could bring some relief to affected families, and the case highlights the risks civilian flights face in conflict zones.
Whether you're catching an early-morning flight to Bali or jetting off for a family Eid reunion, this story reminds us all: civilian aviation safety is a global concern. 🌏✈️
Stay tuned for more updates and let's hope for justice and closure for those affected. 🙏
Reference(s):
Putin admits Russian role in 2024 Azerbaijani jet crash, offers compensation
cgtn.com