The United Nations has found Russia responsible for the downing of flight MH17 in 2014, in a landmark ruling.
The Council of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) on Tuesday (Wednesday AEST) ruled that Russia broke international aviation law under the Chicago Convention, the foundational treaty governing international civil aviation, and was responsible for downing the civilian aircraft over a decade ago.
The Malaysia Airlines flight was travelling from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur on July 17, 2014, but was shot down over eastern Ukraine, with an investigation determining that it was hit by a Russian surface-to-air missile.
All 298 on board were killed, including 38 Australian citizens and residents.
Initially the Netherlands established a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) in August 2014 together with Australia, Malaysia and Belgium, as well as Ukraine, but in 2022 the case that saw results this week was brought forward to the ICAO by Australia and the Netherlands.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong welcomed the ruling, describing it as “a historic moment in the pursuit of truth, justice and accountability".
“In reaching its decision, the ICAO Council has upheld the fundamental principle that weapons should not be used against civil aircraft," Wong said in a statement.
“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.”
