Ayotte, Shaheen Want Accountability in Malaysia Plane Crash

U.S. Sen. Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) and U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) say those responsible for the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 must be held accountable. 

Ayotte, during an appearance on "On the Record" with Greta Van Susteren, called it a "game-changer" if Russia or Russian-backed rebels are behind the attack.

Shaheen issued the following statement:

"My thoughts are with the victims of the missile attack in Ukraine and their loved ones, including the family of the one confirmed American who was killed. While much is still unknown about the situation, the U.S. Government has announced it has credible evidence that the aircraft was brought down by a surface-to-air missile fired from territory controlled by Russian-backed rebels. We need an immediate cease-fire so that a thorough international investigation can determine who is responsible for this heinous act, and we must hold the perpetrators accountable."

Ayotte, in a statement from her office, said:

"The sanctions announced today by the administration represent an important step forward in the effort to deter Putin’s continued aggression in Ukraine. If the Kremlin continues to undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty and stability, tougher sanctions may be necessary in the coming days. I reiterate my call for the administration to provide the Ukrainian military the weapons—including anti-tank weapons—they need to defend their country against Russian aggression."