In a solemn commemoration, the international community marks the 10-year anniversary of the tragic downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17. On July 17, 2014, a surface-to-air missile launched from Russian-occupied territories in Ukraine struck the airplane, resulting in the deaths of all 298 passengers and crew members. Today, the Netherlands and Australia, supported by fellow European Union (EU) member states, reaffirm their stance that Russia is responsible for this act of aggression and violation of international law.

Since that fateful day, pro-Kremlin disinformation outlets have tirelessly propagated a multitude of narratives to divert attention from the clear evidence implicating Russian authorities in these murders. However, the EU member states stand together, resolute in their conviction that no disinformation campaign can obscure the facts that have been established by a court of law.

In a historical trial conducted by the District Court of The Hague, Igor Girkin, Sergey Dubinskiy, and Leonid Kharchenko were found guilty, in absentia, of causing the MH17 crash and the subsequent murder of all passengers and crew. The court handed down life sentences to Girkin and Dubinskiy, while Kharchenko was also sentenced to life imprisonment. Moreover, the trio was ordered to pay over €16 million in compensation to the victims. Although they have disregarded their sentences, the verdict has rendered their guilt indisputable.

Over the past decade, Russia has not only faced international condemnation for the MH17 tragedy but has also been involved in an unprovoked and imperialistic aggression against Ukraine. For the last 2.5 years, Russian forces have waged a relentless war, resulting in numerous casualties and immense devastation. It is apparent that the downing of MH17 served as a precursor to Russia's subsequent disinformation tactics and manipulative narratives employed during its invasion of Ukraine.

The disinformation campaign launched after MH17 shares striking similarities with subsequent events perpetrated by Russian forces. The Kremlin swiftly denied the truth, sought to shift blame onto others, and propagated conspiracy theories to confuse the international community. These tactics were evident following the Bucha massacre and the destruction of the Kakhovka dam.

In the aftermath of the MH17 tragedy, pro-Kremlin outlets falsely claimed that the aircraft had been intended as a target for Ukrainian forces. Similarly, following the destruction of the Kakhovka dam, Russia falsely blamed Ukraine for an attack that occurred on territories under Russian occupation. These disinformation tactics served to obfuscate the truth and distort responsibility for these heinous acts.

It is imperative to recognize the grim reality that the Kremlin's disinformation tactics continue to be employed, aiming to distort public opinion and deflect blame for their actions. As the international community looks back on the anniversary of MH17, it serves as a stark reminder that Russian authorities have not hesitated to employ lies and denial to cover up their crimes.

However, the resolute stance exhibited by the Netherlands, Australia, and EU member states underscores the commitment to uncovering the truth and seeking justice for the victims of MH17. As the perpetrators are held accountable and their guilt is firmly established, our vigilance remains crucial in countering disinformation and ensuring that the voices of the innocent are not silenced.

In the face of ongoing aggression and manipulation, it is essential to remain vigilant and not be deceived by the Kremlin's relentless tactics. The lessons learned from MH17 must guide us in exposing the truth and holding those responsible for such atrocities accountable, to ensure that justice prevails.