EU Declares Start of Criminal Trial on Downing of Flight MH17 over Eastern Ukraine

The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell declared that a criminal trial must be initiated on the suspicious downing of Flight MH17. The Malaysian Airlines flight was shot down over eastern Ukraine, where the Russian-backed separatist forces are based. On behalf of the European Union, the High Representative demanded a criminal investigation into the matter, in which a lot of fingers are pointed at Russia. The tragedy happened on 17 July 2014, killing all on board: 298 civilians from 17 different countries.     

“The start of the criminal trial on 9 March marks an important milestone towards establishing the truth and achieving justice for the victims of Flight MH17 and their next of kin, and holding those responsible for the downing of Flight MH17 to account,” stated the EU.

The High Representative reasserted his full confidence in the objectivity and competence of the legal team and the lawful procedures.

“As the criminal investigation of the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) continues, the EU calls on all States, including the Russian Federation, to cooperate fully with the investigation, in accordance with UNSC Resolution 2166,” reads the EU statement.

By B.Alexishvili