The Russian Community remains shocked and saddened by the recent downing of MH17 and the tragic loss of life that has occurred. We send our sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives and support Australia’s resolution to the United Nations Security Council to condemn the downing of MH17 and demand for an independent investigation. Our hope is for an end to the conflict in Russia and Ukraine and for peace to prevail.

We are however wishing to express concerns about recent statements made in parliament and the media in regard to the downing of MH17 in relation to the Russian Community. Some of the Prime Minister’s statements we consider to be accusatory and inflammatory to all Russian people.

Whilst the Russian Community in no way condones the downing of MH17, such statements are sadly not conducive to harmonious multicultural relations in our own country, Australia.  Until the investigation is concluded it would be prudent to not make statements which, at this point in time, cannot be validated.

Disturbingly, and particularly in light of the MH17 incident, there seems to be an ‘anti-Russian’ sentiment growing in Australia.  We need to ensure that law-abiding Russians and Ukraine people are offered mutual respect at all times.

Nearly every Russian speaking member of our community has friends and relatives in both countries and we are not indifferent to the status of both Nations.

 The Prime Minister’s statements have the potential to impact on all Australians and we stress that distinguishing between facts and conjecture (and indeed law abiding Russians) is important in regard to the potential negative impact on all Australians, particularly the Russian Community.