Azerbaijan Shoots Down Russian Military Helicopter... 'Attention on Russia's Additional Response'

Two Russian Military Helicopter Pilots Killed, One Injured
Azerbaijan Expresses Apology and Intent to Compensate

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] The Azerbaijani military shot down a Russian military helicopter, resulting in the deaths of two crew members, including the pilot. Although the Azerbaijani military apologized, calling it a mistaken attack, attention is focused on whether Russia will take follow-up action.

Russian military helicopter destroyed beyond recognition after an attack by Azerbaijani forces
[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

According to BBC on the 9th (local time), a Russian Mi-24 combat helicopter was shot down by Azerbaijani forces over Armenian airspace. This area is the border region between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and the downed helicopter was reportedly escorting a transport convoy.

The Russian helicopter was hit by a portable rocket from Azerbaijani forces and crashed in a mountainous area. Besides the fatalities, one person was injured and evacuated.

The Azerbaijani Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed regret and a willingness to compensate regarding the downing of the Russian military helicopter. The ministry explained, "The downed Russian helicopter was flying at low altitude late at night," adding, "Until now, Russian military helicopters had not been seen in this area."

The Armenian military stated that the attack was "accidental" and was not aimed at Russia.

It remains to be seen what impact the downing of the Russian military helicopter will have. Russia has attempted to act as a mediator in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Russia has a military alliance with Armenia and maintains a base there. Additionally, its relations with Azerbaijan have not been bad.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.