Just because the weapon was made in Russia, it doesn't mean it was Russia who did that...Russian didn't have any motive to do that and it is far more responsible country to get involved in such an heinous act of shooting down the passenger jet
Dutch journalist claims evidence MH17 shot down by Russian BUK missile
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MH17 families sue Ukraine rebel for USD 900 mn
Chicago, Jul 16, 2015, (AFP)
Relatives of MH17 crash victims have filed a nearly USD 900 million suit against a one-time leader of Ukranian insurgents over the shooting down of the jet over the rebel-held east of the country last year.
A writ filed in Chicago yesterday claimed that Igor Strelkov, a Russian also known as Igor Girkin, was acting with the "actual or apparent" authority of President Vladimir Putin's government when the Malaysia Airlines jet was blown out of the sky, killing all 298 people on board.
Relatives of 17 victims are being represented by a US-based firm specialising in aviation litigation, which is claiming at least USD 50 million for each of the plaintiffs' loved ones.
Strelkov's wife Miroslava, who also acts as his spokeswoman, said the former rebel -- a self-professed Russian former intelligence agent who spearheaded the insurgency until last August and is now based in Russia -- would not comment.
"What does he have to do with this anyway," she said on Russian radio.
The court papers say that "Flight 17 flew over the airspace of the area in which the aforesaid rebel army was waging its war activities and the rebel army under the command responsibility of defendant Girkin shot down the subject Boeing 777-200 aircraft."
"Defendant Girkin ordered, aided and/or abetted this action and/or conspired with those persons who fired the missile or missiles."
The lawsuit was filed almost a year to the day when the passenger jet travelling between Amsterdam and Kuala Lumpur went down on July 17 during some of the worst fighting between government forces and pro-Russian separatists.
All 298 passengers and crew on board -- the majority of them Dutch -- died.
Ukraine and the West have accused the separatists of using a surface-to-air missile supplied by Moscow to down the Boeing.
Russia has denied the claim and suggested that a Ukrainian missile may have hit it.
In a bid to counter raging accusations that he was personally guilty, an ashen-faced Putin recorded an unprecedented nighttime video address soon after the tragedy, urging the West and Kiev not to exploit the disaster for political gains.
Malaysia earlier this month formally asked the United Nations to establish an international tribunal that it said would guarantee an independent trial for those behind the MH17 disaster.
Putin, speaking to Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte today, said that establishing such a court would be both premature and counterproductive.
Chicago, Jul 16, 2015, (AFP)
Relatives of MH17 crash victims have filed a nearly USD 900 million suit against a one-time leader of Ukranian insurgents over the shooting down of the jet over the rebel-held east of the country last year.
A writ filed in Chicago yesterday claimed that Igor Strelkov, a Russian also known as Igor Girkin, was acting with the "actual or apparent" authority of President Vladimir Putin's government when the Malaysia Airlines jet was blown out of the sky, killing all 298 people on board.
Relatives of 17 victims are being represented by a US-based firm specialising in aviation litigation, which is claiming at least USD 50 million for each of the plaintiffs' loved ones.
Strelkov's wife Miroslava, who also acts as his spokeswoman, said the former rebel -- a self-professed Russian former intelligence agent who spearheaded the insurgency until last August and is now based in Russia -- would not comment.
"What does he have to do with this anyway," she said on Russian radio.
The court papers say that "Flight 17 flew over the airspace of the area in which the aforesaid rebel army was waging its war activities and the rebel army under the command responsibility of defendant Girkin shot down the subject Boeing 777-200 aircraft."
"Defendant Girkin ordered, aided and/or abetted this action and/or conspired with those persons who fired the missile or missiles."
The lawsuit was filed almost a year to the day when the passenger jet travelling between Amsterdam and Kuala Lumpur went down on July 17 during some of the worst fighting between government forces and pro-Russian separatists.
All 298 passengers and crew on board -- the majority of them Dutch -- died.
Ukraine and the West have accused the separatists of using a surface-to-air missile supplied by Moscow to down the Boeing.
Russia has denied the claim and suggested that a Ukrainian missile may have hit it.
In a bid to counter raging accusations that he was personally guilty, an ashen-faced Putin recorded an unprecedented nighttime video address soon after the tragedy, urging the West and Kiev not to exploit the disaster for political gains.
Malaysia earlier this month formally asked the United Nations to establish an international tribunal that it said would guarantee an independent trial for those behind the MH17 disaster.
Putin, speaking to Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte today, said that establishing such a court would be both premature and counterproductive.
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MH17 investigation says jet was shot down by Russian missile: Report | Zee News
By Supriya Jha | Last Updated: Thursday, July 16, 2015 - 11:41
Zee Media Bureau/Supriya Jha
Washington: In what may spell fresh trouble for Russia, the investigation into the crash of Malaysia Airlines jet MH17 has found pro-Russian rebels responsible for shooting the plane down a year ago, the CNN says.
The revelation comes just a day before the world will mark the first anniversary of the plane tragedy during which 298 people were killed when it was shot down over Ukraine war zone on July 17, 2014.
Citing a source that has seen the Dutch investigators' report into MH17 shoot-down, the CNN reported that the probe has found out that the plane was shot down by a Buk missile -- a Russian surface-to-air missile.
The investigative report authored by the Dutch Safety Board, has not yet been released officially.
The report just confirms what Ukraine had said in the immediate aftermath of the plane crash.
Ukraine`s security service had also provided to US the alleged intercepted phone conversations of pro-Russian rebels discussing how they shot down Malaysian airliner MH17, which were confirmed as genuine by the US embassy in Kiev.
The Malaysia Airlines Boeing-777 flying from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur, was shot down over eastern Ukraine`s war zone on July 17, 2014.
It was said to have deviated from its normal flight path to avoid thunderstorms, a top aviation official from the European Cockpit Association had said.
In the aftermath of the plane tragedy, pro-Russian rebels had made it difficult for international observers from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) to monitor the crash site.
There were also reports of the rebels having dragged the dead bodies away and also looted them.
The safery board has publicly responded to the CNN claim, and said the report of the board deals with CAUSE, not RESPONSIBILITY. That is for the criminal investigation conducted by the JIT to find (or not).
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Reuters
Prime Minister Tony Abbott (C) watches as relatives of the Australian victims of Flight MH17 place floral tributes at a memorial that was unveiled in Canberra on Friday.
Australia remembers Flight MH 17 victims - The Hindu
Updated: July 17, 2015 10:15 IST
Tearful relatives of several Australians, who were flying on the Malaysian jetliner that was shot down over eastern Ukraine a year ago gathered for a memorial service on Friday that included the unveiling of a plaque set in soil from the place where they died.
There were 38 Australian citizens and permanent residents among the 298 people on Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17, which was heading from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur on July 17, 2014, when it was shot down. Everyone on board was killed.
Prime Minister Tony Abbott unveiled a permanent memorial to the Australian victims in Canberra. The memorial, which features a plaque inscribed with the names of Australians, who were killed, is set in soil that a police officer brought back from Ukraine.
“He knew that the place where MH17 came to rest was sacred and that a piece of it should come back to Australia,” Mr. Abbott said. “It was a humane and decent thing for him to know and do. It was a contrast to the savagery that brought down the plane.”
Mr. Abbott and his wife then lay a wreath at the base of the plaque. Dozens of family members of the victims followed, many in tears as they lay flowers alongside the wreath in honour of their loved ones. Some kissed the bouquets before they placed them down, while others kissed their fingers and pressed them against the plaque.
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Lithuania backs call for UN tribunal on MH17 crash - EN.DELFI
Friday, July 17, 2015 Lithuania supports a proposal to set up a UN tribunal to prosecute those responsible for shooting down a Malaysian Airlines passenger plane over Ukraine, Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Linas Linkevičius said on Friday.
In his words, Lithuania, which is a member of the UN Security Council until the end of this year, backs proposals by the incumbent Malaysian presidency. "We strongly support proposals by the UN Security Council's Malaysian presidency which is closely cooperating with Australia and the Netherlands.
The goal is very simple. We want an impartial and effective investigation to identify the culprits and bring them to justice," Linkevičius told BNS on Friday.
British Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond called on Friday for a UN-backed international tribunal to prosecute those responsible for the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over Ukraine one year ago.
Linkevičius says the tragedy "is directly related to Russia's military actions in Ukraine" and must be viewed as a terror attack. Russia said earlier this week, however, it would not back a UN resolution on the establishment of such a tribunal, saying that it "would be premature and counterproductive".
Linkevičius believes such comments "cause some suspicion that Russia doesn’t want an impartial and objective investigation". The Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777 was shot down in eastern Ukraine on July 17, 2014, en route from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur.
All 298 people on board were killed. Most of them were Dutch nationals. Ukraine and many Western countries claim the plane was downed by pro-Russian separatists who used a surface-to-air missile received from Russia.
Having a veto right at the UN Security Council, Russia and pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine deny their guilt.
Friday, July 17, 2015 Lithuania supports a proposal to set up a UN tribunal to prosecute those responsible for shooting down a Malaysian Airlines passenger plane over Ukraine, Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Linas Linkevičius said on Friday.
In his words, Lithuania, which is a member of the UN Security Council until the end of this year, backs proposals by the incumbent Malaysian presidency. "We strongly support proposals by the UN Security Council's Malaysian presidency which is closely cooperating with Australia and the Netherlands.
The goal is very simple. We want an impartial and effective investigation to identify the culprits and bring them to justice," Linkevičius told BNS on Friday.
British Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond called on Friday for a UN-backed international tribunal to prosecute those responsible for the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over Ukraine one year ago.
Linkevičius says the tragedy "is directly related to Russia's military actions in Ukraine" and must be viewed as a terror attack. Russia said earlier this week, however, it would not back a UN resolution on the establishment of such a tribunal, saying that it "would be premature and counterproductive".
Linkevičius believes such comments "cause some suspicion that Russia doesn’t want an impartial and objective investigation". The Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777 was shot down in eastern Ukraine on July 17, 2014, en route from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur.
All 298 people on board were killed. Most of them were Dutch nationals. Ukraine and many Western countries claim the plane was downed by pro-Russian separatists who used a surface-to-air missile received from Russia.
Having a veto right at the UN Security Council, Russia and pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine deny their guilt.
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OSCE mission to visit MH17 crash site| Ukrinform
KYIV, July 17 /Ukrinform/. The OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine calls on all parties to Donbas conflict to withdraw weapons to commemorate the victims of Malaysian Airlines flight MH17 Boeing crash and all the victims of the conflict.
Deputy Chief Monitor of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine Alexander Hug said this at the briefing in Friday, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.
"Little has changed since the day of crash. Local residents of Donbas, as well as 298 people who were on board, continue to die and suffer. And that is why I call on all parties to redouble their efforts to negotiate with each other and work together to withdraw their forces, first of all to pay tribute to the victims of MH17 crash and all the victims of this conflict," he said.
"I want to say that the mission will pay a kind of patrol visit to the crash site," he stressed.
MH17 crash takes off hybrid war camouflage - Poroshenko| Ukrinform
KYIV, July 17 /Ukrinform/. The Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 crash would not have happened without the direct instructions to the militants from their leaders, so Russia's involvement in the so-called hybrid war in Donbas became apparent after the tragedy.
This is said in the official statement of President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko on the anniversary of MH17 crash, published on the official website of the President.
"A highly technological weapon, used to shoot down the aircraft, could have come into hands of the terrorists only from Russia. That would not have happened without participation, without a direct order from the highest political and military leadership of the neighboring state. Exactly a year ago, a camouflage of the ugly hybrid war launched against Ukraine was taken off," the President stated.
He said that Ukraine would do everything possible to bring perpetrators of the crash to justice.
"Our moral duty to honor the memory of the fallen ones is to ensure a fair punishment for those guilty in downing the aircraft. This crime represents a threat to the whole international community. Justice has to be restored and the readiness to defend the basic values to be demonstrated. This is an act of atrocity that can't be forgiven by anyone in the modern world," the Head of State stressed.
Poroshenko said that Ukraine together with Australia, Belgium, Malaysia and the Netherlands had asked the UN Security Council to establish an international criminal tribunal on those responsible for crimes connected to the downing of the aircraft. “Just as in the course of the past year, Ukraine is ready to continue to provide all the support, information, necessary to bring those responsible to justice,” Ukraine's President stressed.
********************
Most of militants behind MH17 crash now stay in ‘LPR’ and ‘DPR’ – investigators| Ukrinform
KYIV, July 17 /Ukrinform/. The international investigation team has gathered enough evidence to prosecute specific persons involved in shooting down Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over Donbas a year ago.
Vitaliy Mayakov, deputy chief of the main investigative department of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said this at the briefing in Kyiv on Thursday, an Ukrinform correspondent reported.
"The international investigation team has gathered enough evidence to prosecute specific persons," Mayakov said.
He noted that the joint investigation team was to decide on qualification of criminal activities committed by the persons, involved in Malaysia Airlines flight crash by the end of the year.
According to him, since the investigation is international, that will be done following the results of the joint meeting of all members and heads of international investigative team.
Deputy chief of the SBU main investigative department has also noted that the vast majority of people involved in crash now stay in the areas, controlled by so-called “DPR” and “LPR”, while some of them are now on the territory of another state," he said.
KYIV, July 17 /Ukrinform/. The OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine calls on all parties to Donbas conflict to withdraw weapons to commemorate the victims of Malaysian Airlines flight MH17 Boeing crash and all the victims of the conflict.
Deputy Chief Monitor of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine Alexander Hug said this at the briefing in Friday, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.
"Little has changed since the day of crash. Local residents of Donbas, as well as 298 people who were on board, continue to die and suffer. And that is why I call on all parties to redouble their efforts to negotiate with each other and work together to withdraw their forces, first of all to pay tribute to the victims of MH17 crash and all the victims of this conflict," he said.
"I want to say that the mission will pay a kind of patrol visit to the crash site," he stressed.
MH17 crash takes off hybrid war camouflage - Poroshenko| Ukrinform
KYIV, July 17 /Ukrinform/. The Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 crash would not have happened without the direct instructions to the militants from their leaders, so Russia's involvement in the so-called hybrid war in Donbas became apparent after the tragedy.
This is said in the official statement of President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko on the anniversary of MH17 crash, published on the official website of the President.
"A highly technological weapon, used to shoot down the aircraft, could have come into hands of the terrorists only from Russia. That would not have happened without participation, without a direct order from the highest political and military leadership of the neighboring state. Exactly a year ago, a camouflage of the ugly hybrid war launched against Ukraine was taken off," the President stated.
He said that Ukraine would do everything possible to bring perpetrators of the crash to justice.
"Our moral duty to honor the memory of the fallen ones is to ensure a fair punishment for those guilty in downing the aircraft. This crime represents a threat to the whole international community. Justice has to be restored and the readiness to defend the basic values to be demonstrated. This is an act of atrocity that can't be forgiven by anyone in the modern world," the Head of State stressed.
Poroshenko said that Ukraine together with Australia, Belgium, Malaysia and the Netherlands had asked the UN Security Council to establish an international criminal tribunal on those responsible for crimes connected to the downing of the aircraft. “Just as in the course of the past year, Ukraine is ready to continue to provide all the support, information, necessary to bring those responsible to justice,” Ukraine's President stressed.
********************
Most of militants behind MH17 crash now stay in ‘LPR’ and ‘DPR’ – investigators| Ukrinform
KYIV, July 17 /Ukrinform/. The international investigation team has gathered enough evidence to prosecute specific persons involved in shooting down Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over Donbas a year ago.
Vitaliy Mayakov, deputy chief of the main investigative department of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said this at the briefing in Kyiv on Thursday, an Ukrinform correspondent reported.
"The international investigation team has gathered enough evidence to prosecute specific persons," Mayakov said.
He noted that the joint investigation team was to decide on qualification of criminal activities committed by the persons, involved in Malaysia Airlines flight crash by the end of the year.
According to him, since the investigation is international, that will be done following the results of the joint meeting of all members and heads of international investigative team.
Deputy chief of the SBU main investigative department has also noted that the vast majority of people involved in crash now stay in the areas, controlled by so-called “DPR” and “LPR”, while some of them are now on the territory of another state," he said.
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We ‘will not rest' until justice for MH17 victims is obtained - Samantha Power - read on - uatoday.tv
Jul. 18, 2015
US seeks justice at United Nations for MH17 victims
Agence France Presse: The US envoy to the United Nations called Friday for responsible parties to be "brought to justice" for the downing of flight MH17 over eastern Ukraine one year ago.
Samantha Power said that the US "will not rest" until the victims' relatives "obtain the justice and closure they seek and deserve."
All 298 people onboard MH17 the majority Dutch - died on July 17 last year when the Malaysia Airlines jet, on a flight between Amsterdam and Kuala Lumpur, was shot down over rebel-held east Ukraine during heavy fighting between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russian separatists.
Kiev and the West point their finger at the separatists, saying they may have used a Buk surface-to-air missile supplied by Russia to down the Boeing 777 plane.
But Moscow denies involvement and instead accuses Ukraine's military. In a statement, Power referred to a UN Security Council resolution that members including Russia adopted just after the crash. It called for the perpetrators to be held accountable.
However, she stopped short of calling for a UN-backed tribunal to prosecute those responsible.
Britain, France, Malaysia, the Netherlands and others have backed a tribunal, but veto-wielding Security Council member Russia is opposed.
The Netherlands, where most of the victims came from and other countries paid tribute to the victims with memorials Friday.
**************
Asmaa Aljuned, the widow of the plane's co-pilot Ahmad Hakimi speaks during a commemoration ceremony in Nieuwegein, near the central city of Utrecht, Netherlands, July 17, 2015 (AP Photo)
Ukraine and the Netherlands pray together for victims of MH17 - watch on - uatoday.tv
298 passengers and crew died aboard Malaysia Airlines flight MH17
One by one, the names of the 298 passengers and crew who died aboard Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 were read aloud at a ceremony on Friday (July 17), a year after the passenger jet was shot out of the sky over rebel-held eastern Ukraine.
During the ceremony, widow of First Officer Ahmad Hakimi Hanapi, who was killed on the flight, paid tribute to other families of the victims.
Asmaa Aljuned: "Looking at all of you, I cannot even begin to imagine the sufferings and the sorrows that each every one carry. Though we share similar experiences of losing loved ones, our journey and our grief, can never be equated. And it's a whole different journey in its entirety. And for that my heart bleeds yet again, and for that my heart goes out to each and every one of you. And before I end my speech, I am compelled to carry out the final task of my husband that he never gets to fulfill. Please bear with me. As-salamu alaykum (Peace be with you) and a very good evening ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls. I am your first officer, my name is Ahmad Hakimi, on behalf of Captain Wan Amran and assisted by Captain Eugene (Choo) and first officer Firdaus (Abdul Rahim), we would like to welcome you on board once again Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777 on Flight MH17. Weather on route is fine all the way and we will begin our descent shortly. On behalf of Malaysia Airlines and the rest of the crew, we would like to thank you for flying with us. Thank you and have a nice day."
In Kyiv Ukrainian officials, guests and Dutch ambassador to Kyiv attend a special memorial service marking the first anniversary of the downing of Malaysian Airliner MH17, in which all 298 people on board were killed.
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said the perpetrators must be brought to justice: "And it is a matter of honour to - through an investigation - bring those responsible for the deaths of 298 innocent victims to responsibility. To see them behind the dock, to see them prosecuted by an international criminal tribunal. And it is a matter of our honour to make the tribunal hearing happen."
Western governments believe that Russian-backed forces shot the plane out of the sky with a Russian-supplied BUK missile. Britain and Ukraine marked the anniversary with new appeals for an international tribunal to prosecute suspects, an option also favoured by Malaysia, Australia, the Netherlands and Belgium.
Jul. 18, 2015
US seeks justice at United Nations for MH17 victims
Agence France Presse: The US envoy to the United Nations called Friday for responsible parties to be "brought to justice" for the downing of flight MH17 over eastern Ukraine one year ago.
Samantha Power said that the US "will not rest" until the victims' relatives "obtain the justice and closure they seek and deserve."
All 298 people onboard MH17 the majority Dutch - died on July 17 last year when the Malaysia Airlines jet, on a flight between Amsterdam and Kuala Lumpur, was shot down over rebel-held east Ukraine during heavy fighting between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russian separatists.
Kiev and the West point their finger at the separatists, saying they may have used a Buk surface-to-air missile supplied by Russia to down the Boeing 777 plane.
But Moscow denies involvement and instead accuses Ukraine's military. In a statement, Power referred to a UN Security Council resolution that members including Russia adopted just after the crash. It called for the perpetrators to be held accountable.
However, she stopped short of calling for a UN-backed tribunal to prosecute those responsible.
Britain, France, Malaysia, the Netherlands and others have backed a tribunal, but veto-wielding Security Council member Russia is opposed.
The Netherlands, where most of the victims came from and other countries paid tribute to the victims with memorials Friday.
**************
Asmaa Aljuned, the widow of the plane's co-pilot Ahmad Hakimi speaks during a commemoration ceremony in Nieuwegein, near the central city of Utrecht, Netherlands, July 17, 2015 (AP Photo)
Ukraine and the Netherlands pray together for victims of MH17 - watch on - uatoday.tv
298 passengers and crew died aboard Malaysia Airlines flight MH17
One by one, the names of the 298 passengers and crew who died aboard Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 were read aloud at a ceremony on Friday (July 17), a year after the passenger jet was shot out of the sky over rebel-held eastern Ukraine.
During the ceremony, widow of First Officer Ahmad Hakimi Hanapi, who was killed on the flight, paid tribute to other families of the victims.
Asmaa Aljuned: "Looking at all of you, I cannot even begin to imagine the sufferings and the sorrows that each every one carry. Though we share similar experiences of losing loved ones, our journey and our grief, can never be equated. And it's a whole different journey in its entirety. And for that my heart bleeds yet again, and for that my heart goes out to each and every one of you. And before I end my speech, I am compelled to carry out the final task of my husband that he never gets to fulfill. Please bear with me. As-salamu alaykum (Peace be with you) and a very good evening ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls. I am your first officer, my name is Ahmad Hakimi, on behalf of Captain Wan Amran and assisted by Captain Eugene (Choo) and first officer Firdaus (Abdul Rahim), we would like to welcome you on board once again Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777 on Flight MH17. Weather on route is fine all the way and we will begin our descent shortly. On behalf of Malaysia Airlines and the rest of the crew, we would like to thank you for flying with us. Thank you and have a nice day."
In Kyiv Ukrainian officials, guests and Dutch ambassador to Kyiv attend a special memorial service marking the first anniversary of the downing of Malaysian Airliner MH17, in which all 298 people on board were killed.
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said the perpetrators must be brought to justice: "And it is a matter of honour to - through an investigation - bring those responsible for the deaths of 298 innocent victims to responsibility. To see them behind the dock, to see them prosecuted by an international criminal tribunal. And it is a matter of our honour to make the tribunal hearing happen."
Western governments believe that Russian-backed forces shot the plane out of the sky with a Russian-supplied BUK missile. Britain and Ukraine marked the anniversary with new appeals for an international tribunal to prosecute suspects, an option also favoured by Malaysia, Australia, the Netherlands and Belgium.
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Russia makes rival U.N. move on MH17 probe after dismissing tribunal bid| Reuters
Mon Jul 20, 2015 3:02pm EDT
Russia is pushing for a greater U.N. role in an investigation into what caused the downing of a passenger plane in eastern Ukraine after dismissing a proposal by Malaysia, Australia, the Netherlands, Belgium and Ukraine for a U.N.-backed tribunal.
Led by the Dutch, the countries are conducting a criminal inquiry into Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 and circulated a draft resolution to the U.N. Security Council earlier this month that would create a tribunal to prosecute those responsible.
But Russian President Vladimir Putin has described the move as counterproductive and premature. Russia is a Security Council veto power and therefore could block the bid if it is put to a vote.
Russia has instead circulated its own rival draft U.N. resolution that would "demand that the perpetrators of the aerial incident be brought to justice." The 15-member council is due to discuss the Russian draft later on Monday.
Russian U.N. Ambassador Vitaly Churkin said that Moscow was opposed to an international tribunal because "we believe it's not in the U.N. Charter, the U.N. Security Council is not supposed to deal with situations like that."
When asked if Russia was against the tribunal proposal, Churkin said: "Yes." Earlier this month he described the proposal as an attempt to organize a "grandiose, political show."
Flight MH17 was shot down on July 17 last year with 298 passengers on board, two-thirds of them Dutch. It crashed in Ukrainian territory held by Russian-backed rebels. A final report on the cause of the crash, separate to the criminal investigation, is due in October from the Dutch Safety Board.
Ukraine and Western countries accuse the rebels of shooting down the plane with a Russian-made missile. But Moscow has rejected accusations it supplied the rebels with SA-11 Buk anti-aircraft missile systems.
The Russian U.N. draft, seen by Reuters, would request U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to report to the council within two weeks on "the steps that would enhance the role of the United Nations in support of the (safety) investigation" and the appointment of a U.N. special envoy on the incident.
It also expresses concern that the ongoing safety investigation has been delayed and "does not ensure due transparency in its organization and work methods, which may have a negative impact on its outcome."
British U.N. Ambassador Matthew Rycroft, also a council veto power, said on Monday: "We don't support the Russian draft."
Malaysia, Australia, the Netherlands, Belgium and Ukraine rejected on Monday the accusations in the Russian draft, saying that both the safety and criminal investigations were being carried out in line with the highest international standards.
The Russian draft resolution asks for those countries to "keep the council fully and regularly informed on the progress" of the criminal investigation. But in a joint statement they said the criminal investigation would remain confidential so any future prosecutions would not be jeopardized.
"It is important for the Security Council to take clear and decisive action against those responsible for the downing of MH17 to send a clear message to the growing number of non-State actors with the ability to target civilian aircraft that such attacks will not be tolerated," the statement said.
Those countries hope to put their draft resolution to a vote this month, diplomats said.
(Reporting by Michelle Nichols; Editing by Bernard Orr)
Mon Jul 20, 2015 3:02pm EDT
Russia is pushing for a greater U.N. role in an investigation into what caused the downing of a passenger plane in eastern Ukraine after dismissing a proposal by Malaysia, Australia, the Netherlands, Belgium and Ukraine for a U.N.-backed tribunal.
Led by the Dutch, the countries are conducting a criminal inquiry into Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 and circulated a draft resolution to the U.N. Security Council earlier this month that would create a tribunal to prosecute those responsible.
But Russian President Vladimir Putin has described the move as counterproductive and premature. Russia is a Security Council veto power and therefore could block the bid if it is put to a vote.
Russia has instead circulated its own rival draft U.N. resolution that would "demand that the perpetrators of the aerial incident be brought to justice." The 15-member council is due to discuss the Russian draft later on Monday.
Russian U.N. Ambassador Vitaly Churkin said that Moscow was opposed to an international tribunal because "we believe it's not in the U.N. Charter, the U.N. Security Council is not supposed to deal with situations like that."
When asked if Russia was against the tribunal proposal, Churkin said: "Yes." Earlier this month he described the proposal as an attempt to organize a "grandiose, political show."
Flight MH17 was shot down on July 17 last year with 298 passengers on board, two-thirds of them Dutch. It crashed in Ukrainian territory held by Russian-backed rebels. A final report on the cause of the crash, separate to the criminal investigation, is due in October from the Dutch Safety Board.
Ukraine and Western countries accuse the rebels of shooting down the plane with a Russian-made missile. But Moscow has rejected accusations it supplied the rebels with SA-11 Buk anti-aircraft missile systems.
The Russian U.N. draft, seen by Reuters, would request U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to report to the council within two weeks on "the steps that would enhance the role of the United Nations in support of the (safety) investigation" and the appointment of a U.N. special envoy on the incident.
It also expresses concern that the ongoing safety investigation has been delayed and "does not ensure due transparency in its organization and work methods, which may have a negative impact on its outcome."
British U.N. Ambassador Matthew Rycroft, also a council veto power, said on Monday: "We don't support the Russian draft."
Malaysia, Australia, the Netherlands, Belgium and Ukraine rejected on Monday the accusations in the Russian draft, saying that both the safety and criminal investigations were being carried out in line with the highest international standards.
The Russian draft resolution asks for those countries to "keep the council fully and regularly informed on the progress" of the criminal investigation. But in a joint statement they said the criminal investigation would remain confidential so any future prosecutions would not be jeopardized.
"It is important for the Security Council to take clear and decisive action against those responsible for the downing of MH17 to send a clear message to the growing number of non-State actors with the ability to target civilian aircraft that such attacks will not be tolerated," the statement said.
Those countries hope to put their draft resolution to a vote this month, diplomats said.
(Reporting by Michelle Nichols; Editing by Bernard Orr)
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U.N. vote Wednesday on MH17 tribunal, Russia likely to block - diplomats | Zee News
Last Updated: Saturday, July 25, 2015 - 04:49
United Nations: The United Nations Security Council is due to vote on Wednesday on a bid for an international tribunal to prosecute those suspected of downing a passenger airliner last year in Ukraine, but Russia is likely to block the move, diplomats said.
It is a joint proposal by Malaysia - a member of the council - Australia, the Netherlands, Belgium and Ukraine and foreign ministers from those countries are expected to attend the planned vote on Wednesday, diplomats said.
Russian President Vladimir Putin described as premature and counterproductive a draft resolution which Malaysia circulated this month. Russia proposed a rival text last week that demands justice but does not establish a tribunal.
Russian U.N. Ambassador Vitaly Churkin has said Moscow is against setting up a tribunal, describing the move as an attempt to organise a "grandiose, political show." Russia is a Security Council veto power and can block the bid.
Several council diplomats, speaking on condition of anonymity, said they expected Russia to veto the resolution.
Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 was shot down in July 2014 with 298 passengers on board, two-thirds of them Dutch. It crashed in Ukrainian territory held by Russian-backed separatists.
Ukraine and Western countries accuse the rebels in eastern Ukraine of shooting down the plane with a Russian-made missile. But Moscow has rejected accusations it supplied the rebels with SA-11 Buk anti-aircraft missile systems.
On July 21, 2014, the Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution that demanded that those responsible "be held to account and that all states cooperate fully with efforts to establish accountability."
Reuters
Last Updated: Saturday, July 25, 2015 - 04:49
United Nations: The United Nations Security Council is due to vote on Wednesday on a bid for an international tribunal to prosecute those suspected of downing a passenger airliner last year in Ukraine, but Russia is likely to block the move, diplomats said.
It is a joint proposal by Malaysia - a member of the council - Australia, the Netherlands, Belgium and Ukraine and foreign ministers from those countries are expected to attend the planned vote on Wednesday, diplomats said.
Russian President Vladimir Putin described as premature and counterproductive a draft resolution which Malaysia circulated this month. Russia proposed a rival text last week that demands justice but does not establish a tribunal.
Russian U.N. Ambassador Vitaly Churkin has said Moscow is against setting up a tribunal, describing the move as an attempt to organise a "grandiose, political show." Russia is a Security Council veto power and can block the bid.
Several council diplomats, speaking on condition of anonymity, said they expected Russia to veto the resolution.
Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 was shot down in July 2014 with 298 passengers on board, two-thirds of them Dutch. It crashed in Ukrainian territory held by Russian-backed separatists.
Ukraine and Western countries accuse the rebels in eastern Ukraine of shooting down the plane with a Russian-made missile. But Moscow has rejected accusations it supplied the rebels with SA-11 Buk anti-aircraft missile systems.
On July 21, 2014, the Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution that demanded that those responsible "be held to account and that all states cooperate fully with efforts to establish accountability."
Reuters
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Half of Russians support international MH17 tribunal, despite Kremlin opposition - read on - uatoday.tv
Russia likely to block MH17 tribunal creation under UN aegis
Almost half (47%) of Russians supports the establishment of international tribunal to investigate Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 crash, a move strongly opposed by the Russian government. That is according to recent survey conducted by the Russian research NGO 'Levada-Center', Russian news outlet Slon reports.
Nearly a fifth (19%) of Russians supports the position of Kremlin, while 34% can not answer the question.
Another 'Levada' survey shows that 44% of Russians blame Ukrainian soldiers for downing the aircraft, while 41% blames Ukraine authorities. Some 17% of the respondents believe that the one responsible for the crash is the US. 3% blame Russian-backed militants in east Ukraine, 2% - Russia.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and other officials have spoken against the MH17 international tribunal, provided for in a draft UN resolution proposed by Malaysia. Russia then proposed a rival text that demands justice for the victims of Flight MH17, but does not establish a tribunal.
The United Nations Security Council is to vote on July 29 on whether to create a tribunal to assign blame for the tragedy.
Russia likely to block MH17 tribunal creation under UN aegis
Almost half (47%) of Russians supports the establishment of international tribunal to investigate Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 crash, a move strongly opposed by the Russian government. That is according to recent survey conducted by the Russian research NGO 'Levada-Center', Russian news outlet Slon reports.
Nearly a fifth (19%) of Russians supports the position of Kremlin, while 34% can not answer the question.
Another 'Levada' survey shows that 44% of Russians blame Ukrainian soldiers for downing the aircraft, while 41% blames Ukraine authorities. Some 17% of the respondents believe that the one responsible for the crash is the US. 3% blame Russian-backed militants in east Ukraine, 2% - Russia.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and other officials have spoken against the MH17 international tribunal, provided for in a draft UN resolution proposed by Malaysia. Russia then proposed a rival text that demands justice for the victims of Flight MH17, but does not establish a tribunal.
The United Nations Security Council is to vote on July 29 on whether to create a tribunal to assign blame for the tragedy.
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UN Security Council to vote on MH17 tribunal today| Ukrinform
KYIV, July 28 /Ukrinform/. Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop is attempting to convince Vladimir Putin's Russia and allies to back an independent UN tribunal to prosecute the people who shot down Malaysian Airlines flight MH17.
Ms Bishop had a blunt message for Russia as she arrived in New York early on Tuesday morning, according to The Sydney Morning Herald .
"We cannot allow a veto in the United Nations Security Council to avoid justice," she said.
"We owe it to the families to pursue those responsible, we owe it to those who are still suffering and grieving over the loss of their loved ones aboard MH17. They will not have closure in their lives until this matter is completed," she added.
Ms Bishop arrived in New York to lead three more days of intense lobbying and diplomacy, meeting with everyone from Russian UN representative Vitaly Churkin through to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon.
KYIV, July 28 /Ukrinform/. Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop is attempting to convince Vladimir Putin's Russia and allies to back an independent UN tribunal to prosecute the people who shot down Malaysian Airlines flight MH17.
Ms Bishop had a blunt message for Russia as she arrived in New York early on Tuesday morning, according to The Sydney Morning Herald .
"We cannot allow a veto in the United Nations Security Council to avoid justice," she said.
"We owe it to the families to pursue those responsible, we owe it to those who are still suffering and grieving over the loss of their loved ones aboard MH17. They will not have closure in their lives until this matter is completed," she added.
Ms Bishop arrived in New York to lead three more days of intense lobbying and diplomacy, meeting with everyone from Russian UN representative Vitaly Churkin through to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon.
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EU 'very much regrets' Russian veto of UN MH17 resolution | Zee News
Last Updated: Thursday, July 30, 2015 - 18:32
Brussels: The EU said on Thursday it regretted as a "setback" a Russian veto of a UN resolution for a tribunal to prosecute those responsible for downing Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over Ukraine last year.
"We very much regret that the UN Security Council last night did not adopt due to the veto of Russia the resolution on the downing of MH17," European Commission spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic told reporters.
"This resolution would have established a binding and credible mechanism for prosecuting those responsible for this terrible tragedy," Kocijancic said.
"Regardless of this setback, the work must continue so that those who are either directly or indirectly responsible for the downing of MH17 are indeed held accountable," said the spokeswoman for the Commission, the executive of the 28-nation EU.
Eleven of the 15 members of the Security Council voted yesterday in favour of the resolution to set up a special tribunal to try those responsible for the downing of the Malaysian airliner on July 17, 2014 that killed all 298 people aboard.
Russia exercised its veto over the resolution which was drafted by Australia, Belgium, Malaysia, the Netherlands and Ukraine.
Angola, China and Venezuela abstained.
The resolution was supported by Britain, France and the US who suspect pro-Russian separatist rebels of shooting down the Boeing 777 with a BUK surface-to-air missile supplied by Russia.
Moscow denies involvement and blames the Ukrainian military.
Last Updated: Thursday, July 30, 2015 - 18:32
Brussels: The EU said on Thursday it regretted as a "setback" a Russian veto of a UN resolution for a tribunal to prosecute those responsible for downing Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over Ukraine last year.
"We very much regret that the UN Security Council last night did not adopt due to the veto of Russia the resolution on the downing of MH17," European Commission spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic told reporters.
"This resolution would have established a binding and credible mechanism for prosecuting those responsible for this terrible tragedy," Kocijancic said.
"Regardless of this setback, the work must continue so that those who are either directly or indirectly responsible for the downing of MH17 are indeed held accountable," said the spokeswoman for the Commission, the executive of the 28-nation EU.
Eleven of the 15 members of the Security Council voted yesterday in favour of the resolution to set up a special tribunal to try those responsible for the downing of the Malaysian airliner on July 17, 2014 that killed all 298 people aboard.
Russia exercised its veto over the resolution which was drafted by Australia, Belgium, Malaysia, the Netherlands and Ukraine.
Angola, China and Venezuela abstained.
The resolution was supported by Britain, France and the US who suspect pro-Russian separatist rebels of shooting down the Boeing 777 with a BUK surface-to-air missile supplied by Russia.
Moscow denies involvement and blames the Ukrainian military.
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Russia blocked attempt to ensure justice for MH17 victim families, Lithuanian diplomat says - EN.DELFI
Thursday, July 30, 2015
By vetoing on Wednesday a UN Security Council resolution on setting up a tribunal for those responsible for the Malaysian plane MH17 tragedy, Russia blocked the way for ensuring justice for the families of the victims, Dainius Baublys, a minister counselor at Lithuania's Permanent Mission to the UN, says. UN Security Council UN Security Council © AP/Scanpix Meanwhile, Lithuanian Prime Minister Algirdas Butkevičius says Russia's veto shows unwillingness to carry out a full investigation of the tragedy.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Baublys expressed regret "over such a step of Russia, blocking the way for ensuring justice for the families of the catastrophe victims". Constant flows of arms and fighters from Russia to rebel-held eastern Ukraine created conditions for the MH17 tragedy, the Lithuanian representative said.
Lithuania supports further attempts to ensure that the culprits of this catastrophe are brought to justice, the ministry said.
Baublys also drew attention to the fact that the interested countries as well as the international community fully trust the Dutch-led international investigation into the tragedy, being carried out in line with the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization and the Chicago Convention. "Many people probably realize who committed this crime, and such a veto once again shows that simply there's a lack of willingness for a full investigation and the prosecution of responsible people. But I think the truth will prevail through certain decisions and that other ways to present information to the public and carry out a full probe will be looked for on the international level," Lithuanian Prime Minister Algirdas Butkevičius told the Žinių Radijas news radio on Thursday morning.
The UN Security Council on Wednesday failed to adopt a resolution on establishing an international criminal tribunal to prosecute those responsible for the tragedy after Russia used its right of veto. Eleven UN Security Council members, including Lithuania, voted in favor, while China, Venezuela and Angola abstained.
The draft resolution was submitted by Malaysia on behalf of the countries involved in the joint investigation group including Australia, the Netherlands, Ukraine, Belgium and Malaysia. On July 21, 2014, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2166, concerning the MH17 tragedy, expressing support for the "efforts to establish a full, thorough and independent international investigation into the incident in accordance with international civil aviation guidelines" and calling for the prosecution of the culprits.
Veto not prevents MH17 crash investigation – US representative to UN| Ukrinform
KYIV, July 30 /Ukrinform/. Russia's veto will not prevent the investigation of MH17 plane crash in Donbas.
U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations Samantha Power stated this at the UN Security Council, Radio Liberty reports.
"We are outraged and deeply disappointed by the results of the voting. But today we want to say to the families of killed people that the perpetrators will be punished, as veto will not stop our commitment to do this," she said.
In turn, Russia's representative to the UN Vitaly Churkin stated once again that Russia saw no reason to create a tribunal.
Russia vetoes resolution to create tribunal for downing of MH17 | United Nations Radio
29 Jul 2015
Russia has vetoed a resolution of the UN Security Council aiming to establish an international tribunal to persecute persons responsible for the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17.
The plane was en route to Kuala Lumpur from Amsterdam on 17 July 2014 when it crashed in eastern Ukraine, killing 298 people.
An investigation by the Dutch Safety Board confirmed that it was hit by a large number of what it called "high energy objects" that penetrated the aircraft from the outside.
Ukraine has been plagued by fighting between pro-Russian rebels and government forces since April of last year.
Stephanie Coutrix reports.
Eleven nations of the 15-member council voted in favour of a tribunal which would build upon current investigative efforts.
But Angola, China and Venezuela abstained, while the Russian Federation voted against it.
A two thirds majority is needed for a resolution to be adopted by the Security Council, as long as no permanent member of the UN-body uses its power of veto, which includes Russia.
The Minister of Transport of Malaysia, Mr Liow Tiong Lai, told Security Council members that his country is deeply disappointed.
"Instead of convening a message in support of justice and accountability, we are sending a dangerous message of impunity for the perpetrator of this heinous crime, as well as jeopardizing the safety of civil aviation over conflict zones in the future."
Minister Lai added that Malaysia will not be deterred by what he called the "unfortunate event" in the Security Council and will ensure justice for all the innocent victims on the plane.
Stephanie Coutrix, United Nations.
Thursday, July 30, 2015
By vetoing on Wednesday a UN Security Council resolution on setting up a tribunal for those responsible for the Malaysian plane MH17 tragedy, Russia blocked the way for ensuring justice for the families of the victims, Dainius Baublys, a minister counselor at Lithuania's Permanent Mission to the UN, says. UN Security Council UN Security Council © AP/Scanpix Meanwhile, Lithuanian Prime Minister Algirdas Butkevičius says Russia's veto shows unwillingness to carry out a full investigation of the tragedy.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Baublys expressed regret "over such a step of Russia, blocking the way for ensuring justice for the families of the catastrophe victims". Constant flows of arms and fighters from Russia to rebel-held eastern Ukraine created conditions for the MH17 tragedy, the Lithuanian representative said.
Lithuania supports further attempts to ensure that the culprits of this catastrophe are brought to justice, the ministry said.
Baublys also drew attention to the fact that the interested countries as well as the international community fully trust the Dutch-led international investigation into the tragedy, being carried out in line with the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization and the Chicago Convention. "Many people probably realize who committed this crime, and such a veto once again shows that simply there's a lack of willingness for a full investigation and the prosecution of responsible people. But I think the truth will prevail through certain decisions and that other ways to present information to the public and carry out a full probe will be looked for on the international level," Lithuanian Prime Minister Algirdas Butkevičius told the Žinių Radijas news radio on Thursday morning.
The UN Security Council on Wednesday failed to adopt a resolution on establishing an international criminal tribunal to prosecute those responsible for the tragedy after Russia used its right of veto. Eleven UN Security Council members, including Lithuania, voted in favor, while China, Venezuela and Angola abstained.
The draft resolution was submitted by Malaysia on behalf of the countries involved in the joint investigation group including Australia, the Netherlands, Ukraine, Belgium and Malaysia. On July 21, 2014, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2166, concerning the MH17 tragedy, expressing support for the "efforts to establish a full, thorough and independent international investigation into the incident in accordance with international civil aviation guidelines" and calling for the prosecution of the culprits.
Veto not prevents MH17 crash investigation – US representative to UN| Ukrinform
KYIV, July 30 /Ukrinform/. Russia's veto will not prevent the investigation of MH17 plane crash in Donbas.
U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations Samantha Power stated this at the UN Security Council, Radio Liberty reports.
"We are outraged and deeply disappointed by the results of the voting. But today we want to say to the families of killed people that the perpetrators will be punished, as veto will not stop our commitment to do this," she said.
In turn, Russia's representative to the UN Vitaly Churkin stated once again that Russia saw no reason to create a tribunal.
Russia vetoes resolution to create tribunal for downing of MH17 | United Nations Radio
29 Jul 2015
Russia has vetoed a resolution of the UN Security Council aiming to establish an international tribunal to persecute persons responsible for the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17.
The plane was en route to Kuala Lumpur from Amsterdam on 17 July 2014 when it crashed in eastern Ukraine, killing 298 people.
An investigation by the Dutch Safety Board confirmed that it was hit by a large number of what it called "high energy objects" that penetrated the aircraft from the outside.
Ukraine has been plagued by fighting between pro-Russian rebels and government forces since April of last year.
Stephanie Coutrix reports.
Eleven nations of the 15-member council voted in favour of a tribunal which would build upon current investigative efforts.
But Angola, China and Venezuela abstained, while the Russian Federation voted against it.
A two thirds majority is needed for a resolution to be adopted by the Security Council, as long as no permanent member of the UN-body uses its power of veto, which includes Russia.
The Minister of Transport of Malaysia, Mr Liow Tiong Lai, told Security Council members that his country is deeply disappointed.
"Instead of convening a message in support of justice and accountability, we are sending a dangerous message of impunity for the perpetrator of this heinous crime, as well as jeopardizing the safety of civil aviation over conflict zones in the future."
Minister Lai added that Malaysia will not be deterred by what he called the "unfortunate event" in the Security Council and will ensure justice for all the innocent victims on the plane.
Stephanie Coutrix, United Nations.
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