Pantsir-S1 Missile Downed Azerbaijan Airlines Flight, Killing 38

Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243 was shot down on December 25 by a missile from a Pantsir-S1 air defense system, which was reportedly transferred from Syria to Russia, resulting in the deaths of 38 people and injuries to 29 others. Investigations have confirmed that electronic warfare tactics were deployed against the aircraft, leading to severe malfunctions in its control systems during its approach to Grozny. Azerbaijani officials are demanding accountability from Russia, asserting that they will pursue the matter in international courts if necessary. Russian investigators have identified the individual who launched the missile and the officer who authorized it, although it remains uncertain if their names will be released. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan's government is steadfast in refusing to let the incident be overlooked, while Russian media has been accused of launching a smear campaign against Azerbaijan in response to the tragedy. This incident has intensified diplomatic tensions between the two nations, as Azerbaijan seeks justice for the victims and accountability for the actions taken by Russian forces.