Putin Candidly Admits Russian Fault in Deadly Azerbaijan Airlines Incident
Russian President Vladimir Putin admitted Russian responsibility for a deadly air incident involving an Azerbaijan Airlines plane last year, offering apologies and promising compensation. The plane crash-landed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, resulting in 38 deaths. Putin assured Azerbaijan's leader, Ilham Aliyev, of a thorough investigation and fair assessment.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged Moscow's role in a fatal aviation accident involving an Azerbaijan Airlines aircraft, marking his most forthright acknowledgment to date. The crash, which occurred after the flight deviated due to Ukrainian drone activity, resulted in the tragic loss of 38 lives near Aktau, Kazakhstan.
Putin, meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Tajikistan, apologized again for the incident and promised compensation to those affected. The Russian president highlighted efforts to provide a comprehensive legal assessment and determine the true causes of the accident.
The incident unfolded after two Russian missiles detonated in proximity to the Azerbaijan Airlines plane, causing significant damage. Initial reports from Kazakhstan cited external damage to the aircraft, which was riddled with holes. Putin assured Aliyev of continued investigation to identify the exact causes.