Reports emerged that a Russian aircraft targeting Ukrainian-held territory was shot down in the Donetsk region, possibly by Russian forces.
A Case of Friendly Fire
Sources from the Ukrainian Air Force, as well as media outlets and bloggers on both sides, suggested that the plane was brought down in what appears to be a case of friendly fire.
Footage shared online shows anti-aircraft systems firing and wreckage on the ground. However, it remains unclear if the footage corresponds to the same aircraft involved in this incident, according to Ziare.
Some media outlets have speculated that the aircraft could be a Su-34, a Russian fighter-bomber often used in this conflict.
This aircraft is known for its advanced avionics, ability to carry up to 8,000 kilograms (17,600 pounds) of weapons, and its speed of 1,200 miles per hour. The Su-34 plays a critical role in both air-to-ground and air-to-air missions.
Fragments Scattered over Wide Area
The head of the military administration of Kostiantynivka, Serhi Horbunov, confirmed that a Russian plane was downed over Donetsk on October 5, with the wreckage falling near the town.
"The debris landed on several private homes, causing damage, but no residents were injured," Horbunov stated.
The crash site was spread across a wide area, with fragments found scattered over civilian areas. While initial reports point to friendly fire by Russian forces, no official confirmation has been made. The type of aircraft and the fate of the pilot remain unknown.
