Azerbaijan ramps up pressure on Moscow over downed jet & murdered writer honoured with new Fellowship
Dec 30, 2024
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Sasha Dovzhyk, Director of Index Ukraine and a writer and curator, dives into pressing geopolitical issues. He discusses Azerbaijan's accusations against Russia regarding a downed plane and the emotional weight of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Additionally, they introduce the Victoria Amelina Fellowship, aimed at supporting creative nonfiction writers impacted by war. Personal stories of resilience emerge, emphasizing cultural revival and community support during these challenging times.
Azerbaijan's President accuses Russia of attempting to obscure its role in the recent downing of an Azerbaijani plane amidst conflicting narratives.
The new Victoria Amelina Fellowship aims to honor the writer's legacy by supporting cross-cultural storytelling during wartime, highlighting resilience and justice.
Deep dives
Russia's Accountability and Aeronautical Incidents
Russia is alleged to be responsible for the tragic downing of an Azerbaijani plane in Kazakhstan, resulting in significant loss of life. The plane reportedly suffered multiple external damage issues, leading to a considerable loss of control in Russian airspace. In response to accusations, Russian authorities denied their involvement and provided alternative explanations for the crash, including claims of a bird strike or a gas explosion. Azerbaijan's government has firmly countered these narratives, demanding acknowledgment of responsibility from Russia and further detailing the physical evidence that contradicts official Russian statements.
Recent Attacks on Infrastructure
Infrastructure attacks have intensified, with notable incidents such as the damage to the S-Link 2 power line connecting Estonia and Finland. This disruption was linked to a ship from Russia's shadow fleet, which raised concerns about maritime safety and security in the region. Finland responded decisively by boarding the implicated ship to facilitate investigations. These events underscore the fragile nature of international infrastructure and the far-reaching implications of Russian activities beyond its borders.
Ukraine's Ongoing Resistance and Military Operations
The Ukrainian military continues to face increased aggression from Russian forces, reflected in the escalation of aerial assaults and drone attacks. In recent operations, Ukraine's air defense successfully intercepted a significant number of incoming drones, although some caused collateral damage in various regions. President Zelensky highlighted the scale of the attacks, noting the aerial bombardment, including guided bombs and missiles, posing a persistent threat to Ukrainian cities and communities. Despite the intense military pressure, frontline positions have seen little change, as both sides engage in a stalemate without significant territorial adjustments.
Cultural Initiatives Amidst Conflict
The establishment of the Victoria Amelina Fellowship aims to honor the legacy of the late Ukrainian writer while fostering cross-cultural connections. This fellowship seeks to support writers, particularly in creative nonfiction, from Ukraine and abroad, emphasizing the importance of storytelling during times of conflict. It offers selected candidates resources for project development, encouraging engagement with the realities of war and the resilience of Ukrainian culture. The initiative reflects a commitment to preserving narratives that highlight the ongoing struggle for justice and the complexities of identity in a war-torn landscape.
Today, we report how Azerbaijan's President accuses Russia of trying to "hush up" Moscow's responsibility for the doomed jet and we hear about a new Fellowship in the name of Ukrainian writer and friend to the podcast, Victoria Amelina.
Contributors:
Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.
Dr Sasha Dovzhyk (Director of Index Ukraine). @sasha_weirdsley on X.
This Christmas, the Telegraph is honouring the life and work of our late colleague David Knowles by working with Humanity & Inclusion, a charity helping the ill, vulnerable and disabled left behind in Ukraine’s warzones. You can donate here: