"Controversy Surrounding the Downed Russian IL-76 Plane: Evidence, Claims, and Clashes"

The shootdown of a Russian Il-76 transport plane has sparked controversy over who ordered it, with Russia claiming it was hit by US-made Patriot missiles fired by Ukrainian forces. The incident, which resulted in the deaths of 74 individuals, including Ukrainian prisoners of war, has raised questions about the involvement of Ukrainian military intelligence and its leader, Kyrylo Budanov. Russia has called for an international investigation, while Ukraine denies receiving any prior notification from Russia about the flight. The situation has prompted inquiries into the nature of the advisory sent to Ukraine, the actions taken by both sides in prior prisoner exchanges, the personnel manning the Patriot system, and the potential involvement of American operators.