Zelensky calls on Switzerland to allow re-export of weapons to Ukraine

SRF reported the information.

President Zelenskyy called on Switzerland to follow a clearer course on arms supplies and join other European partners in this issue.

"I know that there is a discussion in Switzerland about the export of military equipment and weapons to defend Ukraine. This would be vital. We need weapons so that we can restore peace in Ukraine," the President explained.

He also thanked for the sanctions against Russia, blocking of Russian funds and humanitarian aid already provided by Switzerland to Ukraine.

"I want to thank Switzerland for not remaining indifferent to the suffering," he said. 

• In October 2022, Switzerland announced that it was maintaining its neutral status and did not plan to abandon it because of Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

• However, in early 2023, the President of the Swiss Confederation, Alain Berset, said that Switzerland's accession to EU sanctions against Russia was compatible with the country's neutrality, which should not mean indifference.

• Also in May, the Swiss government announced plans to join EU military projects despite its neutrality.

• On June 2, the Swiss parliament voted against a law that would allow third countries to supply their weapons to Ukraine.

• On June 7, the upper house of parliament approved an amendment to the law regulating arms re-exports. According to the amendment, the supply of military materiel will be allowed to a country involved in a conflict if that country exercises its right to self-defense in accordance with public international law, does not violate human rights, and does not use weapons against civilians. The parliament noted that the proposal was not intended specifically for Ukraine, but that this issue could be studied during the next stage of drafting the law.