Russia Ready to Transfer Bodies of Il-76 Crash Victims to Ukraine
Moscow, March 1 (IANS) – Russia has expressed its readiness to transfer the bodies of those who perished in the crash of a military Il-76 aircraft in the Belgorod region to Ukraine, local media reported on Friday. Russian Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova confirmed that the necessary procedures are in place for the transfer.
“Yes, we are prepared. Everything necessary from a procedural standpoint is in place,” Moskalkova was quoted as saying by Russia’s RIA Novosti news agency. She added that the bodies can be handed over following existing procedures, Xinhua news agency reported.
The tragic incident occurred on January 24 when the Ukrainian armed forces shot down the Russian military transport aircraft, the Il-76, over the Belgorod region. The aircraft was carrying 65 Ukrainian prisoners for exchange. All the prisoners, along with three accompanying Russian officers and six crew members, lost their lives in the crash.
The gesture of willingness by Russia to transfer the bodies of the victims to Ukraine is a significant step towards honoring the lives lost and providing closure to the families of the deceased individuals. Authorities will be working to ensure a smooth and respectful transfer of the bodies to their home country.
The diplomatic implications of this tragic event and the subsequent transfer of the victims’ bodies highlight the complexities of international relations and the importance of cooperation and communication in times of crisis. Both Russia and Ukraine will continue to navigate the aftermath of the crash and work towards resolution and reconciliation.
