Delivered by Deputy Permanent Representative Gert Auväärt
It has been almost six years since 298 lives were lost in the downing of flight MH17. This was a heinous crime, which constitutes a grave violation of international law. The independent and impartial Joint Investigation Team concluded beyond doubt in 2018 that the BUK missile system utilized to bring down flight MH17 belonged to the armed forces of the Russian Federation, based in Kursk.
We welcome the criminal trial that started on the 9th of March in The Hague – it is an important milestone towards further establishing and strengthening the truth, towards achieving justice for all victims and their families; and towards holding those responsible to account. We reiterate our full confidence in the independence and impartiality of the proceedings of the District Court of The Hague and urge the Russian Federation to cooperate fully with these proceedings.
It is very unfortunate, that so far, the Russian authorities have not cooperated with the Joint Investigation Team’s international investigation, and have not acknowledged their responsibility in this tragedy. By also ignoring undeniable evidence, and not showing any interest in establishing truth, justice and accountability – the Russian Federation has not fulfilled its obligations outlined in resolution 2166. By voting in favour of this resolution, all fifteen members of this Council voted for “those responsible […] to be held to account”, and for “all States to cooperate fully with efforts to establish accountability”.
Unfortunately, today we need to recall these obligations once more. And so, we once again urge the Russian Federation to accept its responsibility and cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation of the Joint Investigation Team in full accordance with Security Council resolution 2166.
The downing of flight MH17 reminds us, how an armed conflict can impact anyone in the world. This is why the international community must take a stronger stance against Russia’s ongoing and systematic violation of international law in Crimea and Eastern Ukraine. The first point of The Minsk Agreements – to end the interference and ensure a comprehensive cease-fire – continues to be breached by the Russian Federation. Even during the humanitarian crisis of COVID-19 – where lack of transportation has impacted access to food and other services – an increase of cease-fire violations has been recorded last week. On average, there were 12 violations a day, with 2 Ukrainian servicemen killed and 9 wounded.
The victims on flight MH17 stand for all innocent civilians killed in the ongoing Russian-Ukraine conflict. They, their families and friends all deserve justice.