Relatives of passengers killed when Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 was shot down over Ukraine gathered with officials at Australia’s Parliament House on Wednesday to mark the 10th anniversary of the tragedy that claimed 298 lives.
One of those relatives, Paul Guard, mostly blames the conflict raging in eastern Ukraine a decade ago for the missile attack that killed 38 Australian citizens and permanent residents including his parents, Toowoomba doctors Roger and Jill Guard.
Paul Guard expressed his heartbreak over the ongoing conflict and emphasized the need for acknowledgment that the incident was wrong and that Russia should not have been involved in the war.
The conflict in eastern Ukraine has escalated into a full-scale war, with Russia's invasion of its smaller neighbor in February 2022.
The pro-Russia rebel-held border region from where the missile was launched is now under Russian military control. Moscow has denied responsibility for the tragedy and refused to hand over the convicted individuals.
Australia and the Netherlands are jointly pursuing Russia under international law through various channels to hold them accountable for the downing of MH17.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong reiterated Australia's commitment to seeking truth, justice, and accountability for the victims of the tragedy.
A commemoration is also planned in the Netherlands at a monument near Schiphol Airport, where 298 trees were planted to honor each victim.
Australian Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus affirmed Australia's determination to bring Russia to account for its role in the incident.
The international investigation concluded that the missile system belonged to the Russian 53rd Anti-Aircraft Missile Brigade and was brought into Ukraine from a Russian military base.
Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott recalled a tense encounter with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding MH17 and the Ukraine conflict.
Abbott highlighted Putin's aggressive response and expressed regret over the lack of action to support Ukraine.
The tragic incident involving MH17 brought together nations from around the world, with victims hailing from various countries.
The pursuit of justice and accountability for the victims of MH17 remains a priority for Australia and its international partners.
