Azerbaijan President Claims Plane Shot by Russia: Investigation Underway
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev revealed shocking details on Sunday about a tragic incident that took the lives of 38 people in a plane crash near Aktau, Kazakhstan. He claimed that the passenger plane had been shot down by ground forces in Russia, sparking a wave of controversy and confusion in the international community. President Vladimir Putin extended his apologies to Aliyev for the incident that occurred in Russian airspace, but the real cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Details of the Incident
Aliyev disclosed that the plane had encountered electronic jamming before being targeted by gunfire while approaching Grozny in southern Russia. Despite initial reports from Russia attributing the crash to birds or a gas cylinder explosion, Aliyev asserted that the plane was intentionally shot down. The ongoing investigation by Azerbaijan has pointed towards Russian air defenses mistakenly engaging the aircraft, leading to the tragic outcome.
Tribute to the Heroes
The solemn ceremony held in Baku paid homage to the brave pilots and crew members who lost their lives in the crash. Captain Igor Kshnyakin and co-pilot Alexander Kalyaninov, both of Azerbaijani citizenship, along with flight attendant Hokuma Aliyeva, were honored for their sacrifice. The pilots’ heroic efforts to navigate the stricken plane towards a crash landing in the Caspian Sea saved the lives of 29 passengers onboard, showcasing their unwavering dedication to duty.
A Legacy of Bravery
Captain Kshnyakin’s daughter, Anastasia Kshnyakina, shared poignant memories of her father’s commitment to aviation safety and passenger well-being. She recounted his words about the immense responsibility he felt towards every individual on board, emphasizing the selfless nature of his final flight. Through their courageous actions and unwavering professionalism, the pilots exemplified the true essence of heroism in the face of adversity. The legacy of these fallen heroes will forever be enshrined in the hearts of the Azerbaijani people and the global aviation community.