The Council of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) have ruled Russia responsible for the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH-17, 11 years after the disaster.

The Council said the Russian Federation failed to uphold international aviation law, referring to the Convention on International Civil Aviation in their ruling. This legal document binds all countries considered member states, of which Russia is included. 

International law details that states must refrain from the use of weapons against civil aircraft, and the safety of any persons on board must not be put in danger.

Australia’s Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong said these findings marked a historic moment in justice and accountability, calling on Russia to “finally face up to its responsibility”.

“While we cannot take away the grief of those left behind, we will continue to stand with them in that grief and pursue justice for this horrific act,” she said.

MH-17 was shot down over Ukraine on 17 July 2014, killing 298 passengers and crew members on board. Formal conclusions on reparations will be heard in the coming weeks.

Photo by Kacko30 found HERE and used under a Creative Commons license. This image has not been modified.