Russian Federation is pursuing the wrong strategy by seeking to demonise Turkey, target Turkish business interests and allow attacks on its embassy in Moscow, Mr Erdogan said, adding that the measures undermined a strategic partnership. “Our pilots and our armed forces, they simply fulfilled their duties, which consisted of responding to… violations of the rules of engagement”.
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He also challenged Russian Federation to prove its accusation that Turkey is buying oil and gas from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), calling the claims “shameful” and even pledging to step down if the claim is proven.
The surviving pilot of the downed Russian bomber said earlier that no warning had been given and the aircraft did not violate the Turkish air space, although Turkey insists that it gave 10 warnings in five minutes.
“This is Turkish Air Force speaking on guard”.
Russian President Vladimir Putin says Turkey still has not apologized for the downing of a Russian warplane or given assurances that “the culprits of this crime” will be punished, as tensions between the two countries continue to flare. In this sense, they were carrying out their direct task of preventative strikes against terrorists who could return to Russian Federation at any time. Turkey shot down the Russian warplane Tuesday, claiming it had violated Turkish airspace and ignored repeated warnings.
The crew ejected and one pilot was shot dead by rebels as he parachuted to the ground.
Serious consultations would be held with the US on information exchange in Syria in regard to the downing of Su-24, said Putin.
Medvedev further said a decision will be taken on the basis of a Russian law that covers the issues of ensuring Russia’s security.
“I’m in Moscow with you to see how we can act together and coordinate so that we can strike this terrorist group, but also reach a solution for peace”, Hollande said.
“The audio that was released only involved Turkish warnings, no replies by a Russian pilot”.
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Some 15% of all food imports to Russia will be subjected to stricter tests, direct flights could be scaled back and Russians have been told to leave Turkey.
