Additional Coverage:
- Russia being blamed for Azerbaijan Airlines plane that crashed hundreds of miles off course, killing dozens (foxnews.com)
Tragic Plane Crash in Kazakhstan
On Wednesday, an Azerbaijan Airlines flight bound for Russia crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, killing over 30 passengers. The Embraer 190 aircraft had 62 passengers and five crew members on board.
Aviation experts and Ukrainian officials allege that the crash was caused by Russian air defense systems. Drone strikes in southern Russia had prompted airport closures in the area, and the nearest Russian airport on the plane’s flight path was closed on Wednesday.
The plane was carrying citizens from Azerbaijan, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. The survivors, including two children, are being treated at local hospitals.
Azerbaijan’s President Aliyev has expressed condolences to the families of the victims and declared December 26 a day of mourning in the country. Azerbaijan Airlines has suspended social media activity and changed its banners to black in tribute to the lost lives.