Tragedy Unfolds: Russian Military Plane Crashes Near Ukrainian Border
In a tragic turn of events, a Russian military plane carrying 74 people has crashed in the Belgorod region of Russia, near the Ukrainian border, as reported by Russian state media. All on board are confirmed dead, according to the region's governor. The circumstances surrounding the crash are currently unclear, with conflicting reports about the plane's cargo and the events leading to the tragedy.
Conflicting Reports on Cargo and Cause:
Initial reports suggest that the IL-76 plane was carrying 65 Ukrainian servicemen who were allegedly being flown to Belgorod for a planned prisoner swap. However, Ukraine's military disputes this, stating that the plane was transporting air defence missiles for the S-300 system. CNN has been unable to independently verify either claim and has sought comment from Ukraine regarding allegations that it shot down the plane.
Accusations and Denials:
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused Ukraine of targeting the plane with a missile, claiming that an air defence missile was launched from the Kharkiv region. The Ukrainian military command, while acknowledging the plane as a legitimate target, stopped short of accepting responsibility for the crash. The General Staff of Ukraine's armed forces emphasized that recent attacks on Kharkiv were facilitated by Russian cargo planes, increasing tensions between the two nations.
Governor's Insights on Air Defenses:
Belgorod region governor Vyacheslav Gladkov revealed that air defence systems in the region were active shortly before the crash. He reported the interception of a drone over a nearby village, followed by an air attack alert, which was later lifted. However, the governor did not explicitly connect these events to the plane crash, leaving the events unclear.
Russia's Defense Ministry Blames Ukraine:
Russia's Defense Ministry placed blame on Ukraine for downing the plane, asserting that it was a terrorist act committed by the Kyiv regime. The ministry claimed that the plane was shot down using an anti-aircraft missile system, and radar equipment observed the launch of two Ukrainian missiles. CNN cannot independently verify these claims.
Ukraine's Confirmation of Prisoner Exchange Plans:
Ukraine confirmed that plans for a prisoner exchange were scheduled for the day of the crash but clarified that the exchange was not occurring. Prisoner swaps have been a recurring aspect of the conflict, with the largest one to date in early January.
Investigations and International Response:
The Ukrainian government agency responsible for prisoners of war is investigating claims that the plane was carrying Ukrainian servicemen. The Kremlin has acknowledged the incident, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov offering no details but expressing the need to investigate further.
As the tragic incident unfolds, questions remain about the true nature of the plane's cargo, the events leading to the crash, and the potential implications for the already strained relations between Russia and Ukraine. Ongoing investigations and international responses will likely play a crucial role in uncovering the truth behind this aviation disaster near the Ukrainian border.