The Netherlands is ‘deeply, deeply disappointed’ about Russia’s veto of plans to set up a UN tribunal to try those responsible for shooting down flight MH17, foreign minister Bert Koenders said in a reaction.

In a speech to the UN Security Council, Koenders said it is incomprehensible that a member of the council would stand in the way of justice. ‘Immunity sends out a dangerous signal and threatens the safety of civil aviation. The safety of you all.’

The countries involved in researching what happened to flight MH17 would continue in their efforts to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice, he said. ‘The Netherlands will not rest until all the facts are known and justice has had its day.’

Prime minister Mark Rutte described the Russian veto as a ‘blow’ but said the Netherlands remained committed to bringing those responsible to justice.

He also referred to the motion adopted by the security council shortly after the disaster which stated that the perpetrators would be held accountable for their actions.

Other options

Other options for legal action at an international and national level are now being looked at, he said.

Evert van Zijtveld of the foundation Vliegramp MH17, which represents the families of the victims, said Russia’s veto had been predicted. ‘We hope everything possible will be done to ensure justice,’ he is quoted as saying by broadcaster Nos.

Flight MH17 was shot down over eastern Ukraine on July 17, 2014, killing all 298 people on board. Most were Dutch holidaymakers. Evidence so far points to pro-Russian rebels as being behind the shooting.