Investigation Finds “Strong Indications” of Putin’s Involvement in MH17 Downing, But Insufficient Evidence to Prosecute

An international team of investigators has found “strong indications” that Russian President Vladimir Putin approved the supply of heavy anti-aircraft weapons to Ukrainian separatists who shot down Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 in 2014. The Joint Investigation Team, however, has insufficient evidence to prosecute Putin or any other suspects and has suspended their 8½-year inquiry into the shooting down that killed all 298 people on board the Boeing 777 flying from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur.

Dutch prosecutors said Wednesday that there are strong indications that the Russian missile was used to shoot down the plane. The Joint Investigation Team, which includes investigators from Australia, Belgium, Malaysia, the Netherlands and Ukraine, has been looking into the crash since 2014.

The team said it had identified 100 people who could be linked to the downing of the plane, but it did not name any of them. The team said it had identified 100 people who could be linked to the downing of the plane, but it did not name any of them.

The team said it had collected a large amount of evidence, including witness statements, intercepted phone calls, satellite images and videos. It said it had also identified the exact location from which the missile was launched.

The team said it had also identified the chain of command leading to the person who gave the order to launch the missile. However, it said it did not have enough evidence to bring criminal charges against anyone.

The team said it had concluded its investigation and would not be taking any further action. The team said it would continue to cooperate with other countries and international organizations to bring those responsible for the downing of the plane to justice.