US Official Suggests Russian Anti-Aircraft System Might Have Hit…

Azerbaijan Airlines plane crashed near Kazakhstan, resulting in 38 deaths and 29 injuries. Preliminary evidence suggests a Russian anti-aircraft system may be responsible. Investigations are ongoing, led by aviation authorities from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Russia. Criminal proceedings have been initiated by Azerbaijan’s prosecutor general, focusing on all potential causes of the crash.

A U.S. official indicated that preliminary evidence suggests a Russian anti-aircraft system might have been involved in the crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines plane in Kazakhstan that resulted in at least 38 fatalities. This incident reflects ongoing concerns regarding Russian military actions amidst its invasion of Ukraine. Current investigations are being directed by regional officials as they seek clarity on the circumstances surrounding the crash, which occurred near Aktau Airport.
The aircraft involved was on a flight from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Russia. Due to weather conditions in Grozny, the flight was rerouted to Aktau but tragically crashed soon after. Reports state that of the 69 individuals on board, 64 were passengers and five were crew members. The casualties included 37 Azerbaijani citizens, six from Kazakhstan, three from Kyrgyzstan, and 16 from Russia.
Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations confirmed that not only did 38 people perish, but another 29 were injured, with many requiring hospital treatment, including two children. Azerbaijan’s prosecutor general has initiated a criminal investigation into the crash, collaborating with Kazakh officials to explore all potential causes.
A spokesperson from Azerbaijan Airlines stated that cooperation with investigators is ongoing, indicating that multiple explanations for the crash are being considered. The aviation authorities from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Russia are aligning efforts to ascertain the exact cause of the accident. Embraer, the manufacturer of the aircraft, is monitoring the situation and has committed to providing necessary support to the involved authorities.

The crash of the Azerbaijan Airlines plane near Kazakhstan has raised serious questions regarding potential military involvement, specifically from a Russian anti-aircraft system. With 38 confirmed deaths and ongoing investigations, collaborating international aviation authorities aim to uncover the details of this tragic incident. The escalating context linked to Russia’s actions in Ukraine adds a layer of complexity to the investigation.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com