Switzerland re-asserts its neutrality ahead of divisive Ukraine peace summit
Russia described the upcoming conference as “meaningless”, saying that Bern was “openly hostile” to Moscow and could not act as a mediator.
The Swiss Foreign Ministry insisted that Switzerland’s neutrality had not changed, ahead of a peace conference on the conflict in Ukraine next month. Russia has accused Bern of effectively siding with the West and Kiev in the current standoff, making it an unsuitable mediator.
According to the Swiss government, the “Peace in Ukraine” summit aims to pave the way towards achieving peace in Ukraine. “Just and lasting peace” In an Eastern European country. Bern has invited more than 160 delegations from around the world, including members of the G7, G20, BRICS and the European Union. However, Switzerland did not extend an invitation to Russia.
Moscow described the upcoming gathering as… “Pointless,” She said she would refuse to participate even if invited. The Kremlin said that the conference depends on the peace formula proposed by Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, which Russia rejected and described as an unrealistic ultimatum.
Last month, Russian President Vladimir Putin considered Berne’s seemingly contradictory statements ridiculous. He emphasized that “We were not invited there” While at the same time “It is said that it is impossible to solve anything” Without Russia.
On Friday, Reuters quoted a representative of the Swiss Foreign Ministry as confirming Bern’s neutrality “Fixed” It will not be affected by the summit on June 15 and 16. But the statement indicated that “To be neutral does not mean to be indifferent.”
“Switzerland strongly condemns the Russian aggression against Ukraine. Outside the military sphere, the right to neutrality does not stand in the way of solidarity and support for Ukraine and its people. The ministry explained, according to what Reuters reported.
Although it is not a member of the European Union or NATO, Switzerland has supported the sanctions imposed by the West on Russia over its actions in Ukraine.
Last month, the national agency overseeing sanctions in the country revealed that Bern held an estimated 13 billion francs ($14.3 billion) in Russian assets, which remained frozen in its financial institutions.
Also in April, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told reporters this “Switzerland simply does not suit us” As a host for any peace negotiations with Ukraine.
He added: “It is not a neutral party. It has gone from neutrality to open hostility.” The diplomat claimed at the time.
While some political forces in Switzerland are calling for the country’s position to be more closely aligned with the United States and the European Union, a poll conducted by the Center for Security Studies at ETH Zurich, a research university, and published in March, showed that about 91% of Swiss citizens believe the country You must remain neutral.
