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Russia has downplayed speculation surrounding the cause of a deadly airliner crash in Kazakhstan that killed 38 people, including five Russian citizens.
Azerbaijan Airlines Flight AZ-7421, which was operated by an Embraer ER-190 aircraft, crashed on Wednesday near the Kazakh city of Aktau. The incident has sparked widespread shock and outrage across the globe.
However, Russia’s aviation watchdog, Rosaviation, has dismissed allegations that a Russian air-defense system was responsible for the crash. In a statement released Thursday, Rosaviation said it was an “emergency” that may have been caused by a bird strike.
The Kremlin has also refused to comment on the incident, leaving many questions unanswered.
Meanwhile, Azerbaijan observed a national day of mourning on Thursday for the victims of the plane crash. National flags were lowered across the country, traffic stopped at noon, and signals were sounded from ships and trains as the people observed a nationwide moment of silence.
Azerbaijan Airlines issued a statement expressing condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the tragic incident.
“We will never forget the beloved people we lost in the crash of the ‘Embraer-190’ aircraft,” the airline said. “This loss left a deep wound in the heart of an entire community. It reminds us to be more compassionate and connected to one another.”
Source: www.foxnews.com
