Madam Chairperson,

We thank the delegation of the Netherlands for raising this issue to the attention of the Permanent Council.

The delegation of Ukraine has aligned itself with the statement delivered by the delegation of the European Union. I would also add several remarks in a national capacity.

We pay tribute to the memory of the innocent victims of the MH17 flight downing, committed seven years ago by the Russia-backed illegal armed formations over the territory of Ukraine. It was done with direct support of the Russian Federation, which had illegally sent its anti-aircraft missile system «Buk» across the uncontrolled segment of the Ukrainian-Russian state border.

Recognizing its responsibility for this heinous crime yet remains Russia’s obligation. As reiterated on 17 July in the Joint Investigation Team Ministerial Statement by Foreign Ministers of Australia, Belgium, Malaysia, the Netherlands and Ukraine, “it is imperative that we remain steadfast in our commitment to pursuing truth, justice and accountability”, end of quote.

The work of the Joint Investigation Team is aimed to establish all the circumstances, under which this tragedy took place. All those who were responsible for it, need to be identified and brought to justice.

In conclusion, I wish to reiterate our sincere condolences to the bereaved families and friends of the MH17 catastrophe victims.

Thank you, Madam Chairperson.