It is very likely, that there wasn't any fog at all but very low cloud base reaching the ground in some places.
SadPole:
I understand your points. However, for example, all your points about ATCs would be 100% valid if both the crew and the ATC worked for the same team, trained the same procedures and were required to use them.
IL-76 flew below own&airport minimas, GA command when IL-76 almost crashed - ATC didn't see him coming, not to mention commanding TU-154 GA when it already crashed into ground.