More than 10 years after the event, Russia has been deemed to be officially responsible for the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17.
Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong said the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Council in Montreal had found Russia was responsible under international law for the tragedy on July 17, 2014.
“This is a historic moment in the pursuit of truth, justice and accountability for the victims of the downing of Flight MH17, and their families and loved ones,” Senator Wong said.
She said the ICAO Council found that Russia breached the prohibition under international law on the use of weapons against civil aircraft in flight.
“(Russia) is responsible for the loss of 298 innocent lives, including 38 who called Australia home.”
Senator Wong said in reaching its decision, the ICAO Council had upheld the fundamental principle that weapons should not be used against civil aircraft.
“The Australian Government welcomes the ICAO Council’s decision and urges it to move swiftly to determine remedies for this violation.
“We call upon Russia to finally face up to its responsibility for this horrific act of violence and make reparations for its egregious conduct, as required under international law.
“Our thoughts remain with those who lost their lives as a result of Russia’s actions, their families and loved ones.
“While we cannot take away the grief of those left behind, we will continue to stand with them in that grief and pursue justice for this horrific act.”
