CRI听力:Russia Labels Downing of Passenger Jet a Terrorist Act

The head of Russia's Federal Security Service Alexander Bortnikov revealed that the plane crash was the result of a terrorist attack, and that explosives were used to orchestrate it.

"According to our experts, a homemade explosive device equivalent to one kilogram of TNT went off onboard, which caused the plane to break up in the air, which explains why the fuselage was scattered over such a large territory. I can certainly say that this was a terrorist act."

Bortnikov had already communicated the findings to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has said Russia will strengthen its military operations in Syria and punish those responsible for the attack.

On Tuesday, Russian military analyst Pavel Felgenhauer said the Kremlin's decision to disclose the findings was facilitated by last week's terrorist attacks in Paris.

"Apparently the political situation is developing more swiftly with the attack on Paris and it was understood in Moscow that maybe it's important to push forward the official disclosure about a breach of security in Sharm-el-Sheikh and a bomb exploding on board."

Egyptian authorities have said they will take into consideration of Russia's findings and incorporate them into a more comprehensive investigation process.

The Egyptian Minister of Civil Aviation Hossam Kamal said on Tuesday that Egypt is yet to conclude its own investigation of the incident.

"The investigation team hasn't found any evidence of criminal activity in this accident, until now. As for the technical aspects, we have put possible scenarios in place. These scenarios are being studied now, and as soon as we find out any conclusion, whether technical problems or criminal activity, we will be the first to announce it."

On October 31, a Russian Metrojet Airbus crashed over the Sinai Peninsula, shortly after taking off from Sharm el-Sheikh. The plane was carrying mostly Russian tourists to St. Petersburg. All 224 on board perished in the crash.

Russia has offered 50 million US dollars in rewards for information leading to the arrests of those responsible for the attack.

Meanwhile, at a St Petersburg crematorium, people have continued to bring in flowers and candles to commemorate the lives lost.

For CRI, I'm Victor Ning.