Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin’s official spokesperson, addressed reporters during a briefing to relay the latest statements about the Azerbaijan Airlines crash near Aktau in western Kazakhstan. He noted that a preliminary report is being prepared to outline the initial facts and early assessments of the incident. Peskov stressed that the investigation is in its early stages and that detailed conclusions would come from the competent agencies as the work progresses. He added that it would be inappropriate to comment on the direction of any presidential management while the inquiry proceeds, and that no speculation would replace official updates. The briefing underscored that authorities from Russia, Azerbaijan, and Kazakhstan are monitoring the situation and coordinating their responses through established channels. While the Kremlin does not disclose every detail at this stage, the emphasis is on transparency and a careful, orderly release of information as evidence is gathered. The remarks also highlighted the sensitivity surrounding aviation tragedies and the need to respect the victims and their families during the initial hours of the investigation. In short, the message was that facts would emerge methodically, and only through official statements could the public form a clear picture of what happened.
Embraer 190 aircraft of Azerbaijan Airlines, operating a flight from Baku to Grozny, crashed near Aktau on December 25. The disaster left five crew members and 62 passengers on board, including an 11-year-old girl. The passenger list included 37 Azerbaijani nationals, six Kazakhs, three Kyrgyz citizens, and 16 Russian citizens. Rescue services rushed to the crash site, and authorities from Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan began coordinating search and relief efforts. Investigators focused on the aircrafts maintenance history, weather conditions at the time, and the crew’s decisions. Officials cautioned that information circulating in the hours after the incident might be preliminary and subject to change as the inquiry progresses. The seriousness of the incident prompted immediate international attention and an orderly response from multiple agencies as they worked to establish what happened and how to respond to the tragedy.
Early reports from Baku about the incident are cautioned as unofficial rumors, with authorities urging reliance on verified statements from official channels. Journalists and officials stressed the importance of waiting for confirmed information before drawing conclusions, especially given the high emotional impact on families and communities. The emphasis was on accurate, responsible reporting and on ensuring that updates reflect verified data rather than speculation. As the situation evolved, officials reiterated that the investigation would be comprehensive and that communications would come through proper channels to avoid misinformation while people await news about loved ones and the next steps in the inquiry.
Rescue teams and investigators from Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan are coordinating as they examine flight logs, maintenance records, and weather data to build a precise timeline of events. The search and rescue operation involved multiple agencies working together to locate missing remains and assess the crash site. Authorities are also reviewing air traffic control records, the aircrafts recent service history, and the crews credentials to determine whether any operational factors contributed to the tragedy. With the investigation underway, officials aim to provide updates as facts become verified and to share findings that can guide improvements in safety and response protocols across the region.
The incident has drawn attention from governments, the aviation community, and families affected by the crash. Authorities emphasize that the investigation will be thorough, preserving the dignity of victims while uncovering any contributing factors. Regional cooperation remains essential, and officials from both nations have pledged to communicate openly, coordinate resources, and implement lessons learned from this tragedy to bolster air travel safety. In the coming days, it is expected that additional findings will clarify the sequence of events and offer clearer guidance on preventive measures for similar routes and operations, underscoring a commitment to accountability and ongoing safety improvements.