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Obama wants credible investigation of Malaysian plane crash

Friday, July 18, 2014 - 01:44

President Obama says a surface-to-air missile fired from territory controlled by Russian-backed separatists in Ukraine was responsible for shooting down a Malaysian plane, though questions remain. Jillian Kitchener reports.

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It's a tragedy that has shaken the world. "An outrage of unspeakable proportions," according to U.S. President Obama. 298 people were killed when a Malaysia Airlines flight was shot down over eastern Ukraine. Obama says it's too early to guess the intentions of those who fired at the plane, but says the truth must come out: (SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA SAYING: "Evidence indicates that the plane was shot down by a surface-to-air missile that was launched from an area that is controlled by Russian-backed separatists inside of Ukraine. We also know this is not the first time a plane has been shot down in eastern Ukraine. Over the last several weeks, Russian- backed separatists have shot down a Ukrainian transport plane and a Ukrainian helicopter, and they claimed responsibility for shooting down a Ukrainian fighter jet." He says Ukraine separatists had received a steady flow of support from Russia, including anti-aircraft weapons. (SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA SAYING: "We want Russia to take the path that would result in peace in Ukraine. But so far at least, Russia has failed to take that path." World leaders are calling for a rapid investigation. (SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA SAYING: "The U.N. Security Council has endorsed this investigation, and we will hold all its members, including Russia, to their word. In order to facilitate that investigation, Russia, pro-Russian separatists and Ukraine must adhere to an immediate cease-fire." He added that the U.S. has the capacity to increase sanctions on Russia and is prepared to do so. This as Obama confirms that at least one American died in the crash. And while small white flags are placed where bodies lie, distraught family members wait for answers.