Azerbaijan accuses Russia of covering up a plane crash, demanding accountability and highlighting Moscow’s declining influence in the region.

Azerbaijan is accusing Russia of covering up the circumstances surrounding a recent plane crash that occurred in Kazakh airspace.

Azeri President Ilham Aliyev has demanded that Russia accept responsibility for the incident, offer compensation, and hold those responsible accountable.

Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a general apology during a conversation with Aliyev, but did not accept liability.

Aliyev contended that Russia’s explanations for the crash, which cited birds and gas cylinders as causes, were misleading.

He asserted that the crash resulted from Russian electronic interference and ground fire, indicating a cover-up attempt by Moscow.

Defence system

Preliminary findings from Azerbaijan’s investigation suggest that a missile from a Russian air-defence system downed the aircraft. Aliyev is looking into whether Russia intentionally diverted the plane into dangerous territory.

Despite the efforts of the pilots, who managed to control the plane for some time, the crash resulted in the loss of lives.

The incident marks a significant point of tension between Azerbaijan and Russia, reflecting Moscow’s diminishing influence in former Soviet territories.

This incident highlights the changing dynamics in the region, further complicated by Azerbaijan’s geopolitical relationship with Turkey.

As Russia grapples with its military and economic challenges following its invasion of Ukraine, its grip on its historical allies appears to weaken.