Brussels, 17 November 2022
Today the Dutch court ruled against four suspects in the downing of Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17.
More than eight years ago, the EU deplored the loss of so many innocent lives and voiced our shock with reports of the circumstances surrounding the shooting down of a Malaysian Airlines Flight on its way from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur over Ukrainian territory.
The European Union has repeatedly asked for a swift clarification of the circumstances and for an international investigation to shed full light on this tragedy. We have been equally consistent in condemning such acts of violence threatening the safety of civil aviation, which are grave violations of international peace and security.
Today’s verdict is an important first step on the path of truth and accountability.
The criminal investigation into the involvement of other individuals is still ongoing, just like the proceedings against the Russian state at the European Court for Human Rights and at the International Civil Aviation Organisation.
The EU reiterates its call on Russia to accept its responsibility in this tragedy and cooperate fully with the ongoing investigations.
Source – EEAS