Alexander Kuzmuk and Vladimir Tkachev

Ukrainian Defense Minister Alexander Kuzmuk (right) and Ukrainian Antiaircraft Army Commander-in-Chief Vladimir Tkachev during the press-conference, devoted to the results of the committee investigating the reasons of the catastrophe of Russian Tu-154, on Saturday, Oct 13, 2001, Kyiv. The Defense Ministry personally asked Ukrainian President’s, Ukrainian Government’s, Parliament and people’s pardon for the “strike, damaging the State’s authority”. According to preliminary conclusion, military part of the Ukrainian zenith shell stroke the ill-fated Tu-154. Kuzmuk pointed that he is not intended to hide behind the backs of his subordinates. Tkachev marked that he is sorry that servicemen could not prevent the tragedy and beg pardon of relatives and friends of the October 4 accident’s victims, President and Defense Minister. Photo by Victor Pobedinski/ UNIAN