At Least 20 Killed After Turkish Military Plane Crashes in Georgia
On the border between Georgia and Azerbaijan, a Turkish C-130 military cargo plane crashed, resulting in at least 20 fatalities. The aircraft was en route from Azerbaijan to Turkey at the time of the accident.
Rescue Operations and Cooperation
Authorities immediately launched search and rescue operations, coordinating efforts between Azerbaijan and Georgia. Turkey's national defence ministry confirmed the crash and assured the public that rescue efforts are underway.
"One of our C130 military cargo aircraft, which was taking off from Azerbaijan to come to our country, has crashed at the Georgia-Azerbaijan border. Search and rescue operations have begun in coordination with the authorities of Azerbaijan and Georgia. It is respectfully announced to the public."
"Azerbaycan’dan ülkemize gelmek üzere havalanan bir C130 askerî kargo uçağımız Gürcistan-Azerbaycan sınırında düşmüştür. Arama kurtarma çalışmalarına Azerbaycan ve Gürcistan makamları ile koordineli olarak başlanmıştır. Kamuoyuna saygıyla duyurulur."
Official Condolences
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan expressed his condolences for those who lost their lives. Interrupting his speech, he referred to the deceased personnel as "our martyrs." He offered prayers for their souls and hoped the country would overcome the tragedy with minimal hardship.
"God willing, we will overcome this crash with minimum hardships. May God rest the soul of our martyrs, and let us be with them through our prayers," Reuters quoted the president.
While official statements did not specify the identities of those killed, local media reported that both Turkish and Azeri personnel were on board the plane.
Summary: A Turkish military plane crashed on the Georgia-Azerbaijan border, killing at least 20 people, with joint rescue operations ongoing and national leaders mourning the loss.