Translated: Vladimir Putin blames Ukrainian government for MH17 disaster

Russian President Vladimir Putin has pointed the finger at the Ukrainian government for the Malaysia Airlines MH17 tragedy.

According to transcript from the Kremlin, Mr Putin told a cabinet meeting last night the government in Kiev is responsible for the fighting in eastern Ukraine between government troops and pro-Russian rebel forces.

He argued this conflict led to the use of the missile which downed the plane.

Mr Putin said Ukraine bore responsibility for the downing of the plane, which was carrying 295 people.

"I want to point out that this tragedy wouldn't have happened if there was peace in this land, or at least if fighting hadn't resumed in the southeast of Ukraine," Mr Putin said. "And undoubtedly, the state on whose territory this happened is responsible for this awful tragedy."

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