July 16th 2024.
As the world marked the 10th anniversary of the tragic downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, the Australian government once again expressed its determination to seek justice for the victims and their loved ones. On July 17, 2014, the Boeing 777 was en route from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur when it was shot down by a Russian-made missile fired from separatist-controlled territory in eastern Ukraine. The devastating incident claimed the lives of all 298 passengers and crew, including 38 Australians.
The impact of this tragedy was felt across the globe, with Australia in particular mourning the loss of its citizens. In the days following the disaster, churches were filled with mourners as they gathered to pay tribute to the victims. The role of Russia in the downing of MH17 also came under intense scrutiny, causing a sharp decline in relations between Australia and Moscow. Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott publicly pointed to the Kremlin's involvement, adding to the already overwhelming sense of grief and outrage.
For the past decade, a global investigative team, which includes members from Australian agencies, has been tirelessly working to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable. As the 10th anniversary approached, Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus reaffirmed the government's commitment to bring justice to the victims of this heinous act. He also praised the determination and resilience of the families who have been advocating for justice for their loved ones.
Tomorrow, Dreyfus will join families of the victims and other international dignitaries at a memorial service near Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands. In the lead up to this event, he emphasized the government's call for the Russian Federation to take responsibility for its role in the downing of MH17 and cooperate with the investigation. He also acknowledged the bravery and strength of the families, who have had to repeatedly relive their heartbreaking loss throughout the legal proceedings.
In addition to the memorial service in the Netherlands, there will also be a service held at Parliament House in Canberra today. Dreyfus described it as a moment to honor and remember those whose lives were senselessly taken, as well as a commitment to continue seeking accountability for this despicable crime. In 2022, a Dutch court convicted two Russians and a pro-Moscow Ukrainian for their involvement in the downing of MH17 and sentenced them to life imprisonment. However, as they were tried in absentia, they have not yet been detained to serve their sentences.
Last year, the Australian government implemented sanctions on the two Russians convicted in the criminal trial, Sergey Dubinskiy and Leonid Kharchenko. The court determined that the missile and its launcher were brought into Ukraine from a Russian military base, with the launcher returning to Russia after the attack. Despite overwhelming evidence, Russia has consistently denied any involvement in the downing of MH17 and has refused to cooperate with the international investigation.
Aside from the criminal trial, the Dutch and Ukrainian governments are also suing Russia at the European Court of Human Rights for its alleged role in the tragedy. As we remember and honor the victims of MH17 on this solemn occasion, we also continue to demand accountability and justice for the senseless loss of innocent lives.
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