Kyiv demands international probe into Belgorod plane crash

President Zelenskyy demands an international investigation into the Belgorod plane crash, amidst conflicting claims and escalating tensions between Ukraine and Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for a thorough international investigation into the crash of a plane in Russia’s Belgorod region, which resulted in the death of 65 Ukrainian war prisoners and crew on Jan. 24.

In a statement on Telegram, President Zelenskyy expressed his determination to uncover the truth behind the crash. He confirmed convening top military and intelligence officials to scrutinize the incident and disclosed that Ukraine’s security services are actively investigating the circumstances of the crash.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Zelenskyy emphasized: “It is obvious that the Russians are messing with the lives of Ukrainian captives, the feelings of their relatives, and the emotions of our society. All clear facts must be established … The aircraft crashed on Russian territory – beyond our control. ‘Facts’ is the key word now.”

“I have instructed the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine to provide our partners with the information available to Ukraine. Our state will insist on an international investigation,” he said.

In a swift counterclaim, Russia’s Defense Ministry accused Ukraine of shooting down the aircraft, labeling the incident as “a terrorist attack” and suggesting it was a calculated move by Kyiv to implicate Russia in the death of Ukrainian servicemen. The ministry underscored that Ukrainian authorities were fully informed about the planned transportation of the prisoners.

The disaster and the ensuing allegations have intensified the already severe tensions in the region, drawing global attention and calling for a transparent and unbiased investigation into the tragic event.

Source: Newsroom

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