Ukraine investigates audio recording indicating Iran could down UIA plane not by accident – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The pre-trial investigation and prosecutor's office of Ukraine are investigating an audio recording with the possible participation of Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Zarif, which indicates that Iran could have shot down a plane of Ukrainian International Airlines not by accident.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Yevhen Yenin stated this.

"Today, the media published a recording of a telephone conversation with the probable participation of Iranian Foreign Minister, Mr. Zarif. Since the morning we have had a series of telephone conversations with representatives of the pre-trial investigation and prosecutor's office of Ukraine, who are in contact with our foreign colleagues, and coordinated the efforts to establish its authenticity," Yenin said in a video message shared by the Foreign Ministry.

He assured that Ukrainian investigators and prosecutors had sufficient knowledge and experience in dealing with interceptions, and the investigation into the MH-17 plane crash was an example.

"We'll definitely inform you about the results," the Deputy Foreign Minister said.

Yenin noted that the key thing for Ukraine was to restore justice and establish the truth.

"We'll establish what happened that night. Ukraine and the world community will not allow that someone's interests – whether of the nation or of individual citizens – to take precedence over human lives, human rights, and the safety system. We'll use all our capabilities to do so," he noted.

Besides, the Deputy Minister informed that in a few weeks the aviation security authorities of Ukraine would comment on the draft technical report, after which Iran would submit it to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

"I urge everyone, the entire civilized world, to closely monitor the publication of this report and respond appropriately to it," he said.

Yenin added that a criminal investigation track was also underway, which should set the record straight as to who shot down the plane and under what circumstances they did it.

"Ukraine, together with Canada, Great Britain, Sweden, and Afghanistan, which are members of the joint coordination group, will never allow this tragedy to be forgotten and someone to escape with a whole skin. Together we will bring this case to an end, the truth will be established and justice will be provided," he assured.

Earlier, the media released an audio recording where a person identified by sources as Iran's foreign minister discussed the possibility that the destruction of flight PS752 had been an intentional act.