There are strong indications that Russian President Vladimir Putin decided to supply the missile that downed flight MH17
The passenger aircraft was hit by a Russian-made missile over Ukraine in 2014.
Nearly 300 people lost their lives.
Prosecutors said there was evidence that Putin decided to provide heavy weaponry to Moscow-backed separatists.
The Joint Investigation Team published an intercepted conversation between Putin and former L.P.R. leader.
There is no suggestion that Putin ordered the aircraft be shot down.
The Dutch Prosecutor’s Office says Putin has immunity as head of state, so he cannot be prosecuted.
The bombshell announcement comes nearly three months after a Dutch court convicted two Russians and a Ukrainian rebel for their roles in shooting down the Boeing 777.
The international team will now exhaust all leads.
Prosecutors are suspending the criminal investigation, claiming they don’t have enough evidence to launch any new prosecutions.
“Today’s announcement will be distressing for many,” Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong said in a statement.
She continues: “Our thoughts remain with those who lost their lives, their families and loved ones, and we acknowledge the distress they will be feeling with this announcement.”
