Obama blames Russia while Europe remains mute

With the finger of blame pointing squarely at Russia, US President Barack Obama has toughened his stance, describing MH17 as an outrage of unspeakable proportions that wouldn't have happened without the involvement of the Russians.

"A group of can't shoot down shoot down fighter jets. They're sophisticated weapons and need sophisticated training and that is coming from Russia," he said.

But again a more muted response coming from Europe with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, calling for a political solution in Ukraine but still saying despite differences with Vladimir Putin she aimed to keep the lines of communication open.

From British Prime Minister David Cameron - nine Britons were among the victims - a call for an immediate investigation but no mention of Russia or any suggestion of who might be responsible.