Russian President Vladimir Putin rarely issues apologies, but he made an exception after the crash of an Azerbaijani passenger plane. The incident has strained relations between Russia and Azerbaijan, prompting calls for accountability and reparations. The crash, initially attributed to a bird strike, may instead involve military action as initial reports suggest it could have been shot down by a Russian missile. Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev is under pressure at home, while Putin’s rare show of contrition reflects the complexities of their strategic partnership amidst changing geopolitical dynamics.