The controversial closure of the criminal case concerning the tragic crash of AZAL flight 1, which was shot down by Russian air defence systems last year while approaching Grozny, has uncovered a crucial new detail, according to Minval Politika.
On September 2, 2025, a secret "special conference" was held under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Aerospace Forces to discuss the case involving the AZAL aircraft.
The meeting, which was attended by key military figures including Major General Alexander Tolopilo, First Deputy Commander of the 11th Air Force and Air Defence Army, resulted in a decision to focus on “improving interaction” in the announcement of the "Carpet" signal—aimed at preventing similar incidents from occurring in the future.
This move has sparked further controversy as it was Tolopilo who had issued the order to shoot down the AZAL plane. Despite the devastating consequences of his command, he was allowed to participate in the meeting, deliver a report, and resume his official duties without facing any public accountability for the disaster.
Minval Politika’s investigation reveals that all official probes into General Tolopilo have now been closed, further compounding the sense of impunity surrounding the tragedy.
This development follows Russian President Vladimir Putin’s promise to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev late last year in Dushanbe, where he assured Aliyev that the investigation into the incident would be completed, and those responsible would face punishment.
However, this pledge raises an important question: how can Putin’s assurances be reconciled with the fact that charges against Tolopilo were dropped prior to the meeting between the two leaders on October 9?
The timing suggests that either the Russian president was fully aware of the situation or Russia's Investigative Committee, led by Alexander Bastrykin, misinformed him.
Minval Politika reached out to the Russian Investigative Committee for clarification regarding the closure of the case, but the committee declined to comment on the matter. An official inquiry has been submitted asking on what procedural basis the decision was made.
Furthermore, the Russian Embassy in Baku also refused to comment on the closure of the case, further fuelling concerns over the lack of transparency in the investigation.
The tragic downing of AZAL flight 1 continues to be a sore point in relations between Russia and Azerbaijan, and an apparent lack of accountability raises significant doubts about the Russian authorities’ commitment to justice and transparency.
As the investigation remains shrouded in secrecy, the people of Azerbaijan, along with the families of those lost, continue to seek answers.
China’s ruling Communist Party is stepping up oversight of technology firms, internet platforms and digital finance in a sweeping drive to ta...
A wave of bomb threats targeting passenger flights has disrupted air travel across Europe, forcing diversions, airport closures and fighter jet esc...
U.S. President Donald Trump says Washington will end its annual financial and military aid to Israel by the end of 2026, under an agreement he clai...
Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf says the U.S. must act to prevent war after Tehran sent a “strong and rational response” to Washington. Meanwhile, U.S. forces have reportedly carried out limited strikes against Iranian targets, including Qeshm Island,
Hundreds of millions of U.S. citizens head to the polls on 3 November to elect the House of Representatives and Senate. How they vote could influence the direction of Donald Trump’s remaining 26 months in office and the outcomes of the Ukraine and Iran conflicts.
A six-day humanitarian ceasefire in the Russian-held Ukrainian town of Oleshky ended on Sunday, 1 November, after facilitating aid deliveries and civilian evacuations.
Kyrgyzstan has emerged as Central Asia’s fastest-growing economy, fuelled by a construction boom, public investment and trade linked to Russia. But with Western sanctions tightening, can the country sustain its rapid growth?
Russia airstrikes on a school used as a humanitarian aid distribution point in southeastern Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region killed at least 26 people, including rescue workers and police officers, Ukrainian officials said. Another 27 people were reported missing.
A new book examining Azerbaijan’s military strategy, technology and operations during the Garabagh wars has been unveiled in Baku, offering insights into the country’s victories and lessons for modern warfare.
Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf says the U.S. must act to prevent war after Tehran sent a “strong and rational response” to Washington. Meanwhile, U.S. forces have reportedly carried out limited strikes against Iranian targets, including Qeshm Island,
Tajikistan has banned electronic cigarettes and nicotine delivery systems, becoming the latest Central Asian country to outlaw their production, import and sale as part of a wider push to protect public health.
Kyrgyzstan has emerged as Central Asia’s fastest-growing economy, fuelled by a construction boom, public investment and trade linked to Russia. But with Western sanctions tightening, can the country sustain its rapid growth?
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said the government plans to publish a draft of the country's new constitution in November, with public consultations to follow, as constitutional reforms remain a key issue in efforts to secure a final peace agreement with Azerbaijan.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment