In the aftermath of the Malaysia Airlines MH17 passenger plane crash in the Ukraine near the Russian border, reports have been flying about the circumstances of the incident.

Ukrainian officials suggested that the aircraft was shot down by pro-Russia separatists, who had been engaging in battle with the Ukrainian military in the same area as the crash site.

Both Russia and rebel leaders have denied responsibility.

Now, Russian President Vladimir Putin has released a statement on the crash via the Kremlin:

Vladimir Putin has expressed his deepest condolences to Prime Minister Najib Razak of Malaysia with regard to the accident in Ukrainian territory of a Malaysian Airlines passenger aircraft, resulting in numerous casualties.

The Russian head of state asked him to convey his sincerest words of sympathy and support to families and friends of the victims.