Russian Su-30 fighter plane crashes near Finnish border

RUSSIA: A Su-30 fighter jet crashed during a training flight in a remote area of northwestern Russia on Thursday evening, killing both pilots, the Russian Defense Ministry has said.

The incident took place in Karelia Region, which borders Finland. According to the ministry, the plane was flying without a payload.

Karelia Governor Artur Parfenchikov said the pilots belonged to the 159th Guards Fighter Aviation Regiment based in Besovets.

“I offer my sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives,” Parfenchikov wrote on Telegram.

Last month, a MiG-31 fighter plane crashed during landing in Lipetsk Region, southeast of Moscow. Both pilots ejected safely.