A series of alarming photographs released by the Azerbaijani news outlet AnewZ has surfaced, indicating that an external assault may have targeted an Azerbaijan Airlines aircraft that tragically crashed in Aktau, Kazakhstan, last month. The devastating incident on December 25 claimed the lives of 38 individuals on board, raising serious questions about the safety and security of air travel in the region.

The leaked images showcase visible shrapnel marks on the airplane's exterior, alongside unsettling images from inside the fuselage. These findings have intensified scrutiny on the circumstances surrounding the crash as investigations proceed.

Investigations are currently being conducted to ascertain the precise causes of the crash involving the Embraer 190, a Brazilian-made aircraft. The plane was on a routine flight from Baku to Grozny in Russia when it was unexpectedly diverted, leading to its crash in Kazakhstan.

In a significant development, Brazilian aviation authorities have teamed up with investigators from three other countries to analyze data from the flight's black box. This critical information, including recordings from the cockpit voice and flight data recorders, is being meticulously assessed at Brazil’s air force investigation centre in Brasília.

Adding another layer of complexity, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev publicly claimed that the airliner was struck by ground fire over Russian territory, subsequently losing control due to electronic warfare tactics. He expressed outrage over Russian officials' attempts to downplay the situation, stating he was “upset and surprised” by their narratives.

In a response that has generated controversy, Russian President Vladimir Putin extended an apology to Aliyev for the “tragic incident,” yet he refrained from accepting responsibility. His comments came amidst growing allegations that Russian air defense systems inadvertently shot down the plane while attempting to intercept a purported Ukrainian drone strike near Grozny.

As the investigation unfolds, the shocking implications of these events raise urgent questions about the safety protocols surrounding air travel in conflict zones. The international aviation community and political analysts are closely monitoring the situation, eager to uncover the truth behind this lamentable incident. Stay tuned for more updates as new details emerge!