✈️ In a major development, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced Thursday that Moscow will compensate Azerbaijan after missile fragments from Russia’s air defense system were linked to a deadly passenger jet crash in December 2024. The incident claimed 38 lives and left global aviation experts stunned.
During talks with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Tajikistan, Putin revealed that "technical malfunctions" during a mission to track Ukrainian drones near the border may have triggered the accident. Two Russian missiles reportedly self-detonated near the Azerbaijan Airlines flight, potentially damaging the aircraft. 🚨
Black box data showed the pilot initially suspected a bird strike and attempted to divert to Makhachkala, Russia, before changing course toward Kazakhstan. The Embraer 190 ultimately crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, with 67 people onboard.
Putin vowed "compensation payments" and a full legal review of officials involved, calling the crash "tragic." Aliyev thanked Putin for his transparency, expressing confidence in an objective investigation. 🔍
The incident highlights escalating risks in conflict zones—and raises tough questions about balancing national security with civilian safety. 💡
