Azerbaijan minister suggests 'weapon' hit crashed plane

Summary

Azerbaijan’s Transport Minister stated that the crashed Azerbaijan Airlines jet was likely hit by a “weapon,” with initial evidence suggesting Russian air defense systems may be responsible.

The Embraer jet, en route to Grozny, crashed in Kazakhstan, killing 38 and injuring 29. Survivors reported loud bangs before the crash.

U.S. officials and Azerbaijani sources cite “external interference,” possibly linked to Russia’s air defenses amid Ukrainian drone activity.

The Kremlin declined comment pending investigation. Ukraine blames Russia, likening it to the MH17 incident, while Azerbaijan suspended flights to several Russian cities.