Swiss President Offers to Host Peace Summit for Ukraine-Russia Conflict

Swiss President Viola Amherd proposed organizing a peace summit in Switzerland to facilitate an end to the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The summit aims to ensure a fair resolution and the restoration of international law.

During a visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Bern, Swiss President Viola Amherd announced Switzerland's willingness to organize a peace summit aimed at ending the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia. The summit's objective is to provide a platform for constructive dialogue and facilitate a fair resolution to the conflict.

Joint Press Conference and Preparations for the Global Peace Summit

In a joint press conference with Zelenskyy, Amherd confirmed Switzerland's readiness to host the conference. Both presidents agreed to delve into the details of the next steps to ensure the success of the peace process. Preparations for the Global Peace Summit in Switzerland will commence as early as Tuesday, with Ukrainian and Swiss teams collaborating to lay the groundwork for the event.

Absence of Details and Russia's Involvement

Specific details regarding the timing and format of the summit were not disclosed during the press conference. Notably, Russia has not been directly involved in the planning process thus far. Zelenskyy emphasized the summit's purpose of revitalizing ongoing efforts and achieving a just end to the war, while also restoring the strength of international law.

Ukrainian Military Success and Zelenskyy's Peace Formula

Amidst the summit discussions, Ukrainian military leaders reported the downing of a Russian early warning and control plane, as well as a key command center aircraft. This development, if confirmed, would mark a significant achievement for Ukraine in the nearly two-year conflict.

Additionally, Zelenskyy's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, participated in Swiss-hosted talks in Davos, where he engaged with national envoys to discuss Zelenskyy's 10-point peace formula. This formula serves as a framework for potential peace negotiations and is expected to contribute to the upcoming peace summit.

Inclusivity and Global Support

Zelenskyy expressed Ukraine's openness to the participation of all countries that respect Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He particularly emphasized the importance of involving countries from the Global South, underscoring the need to demonstrate global opposition to Russian aggression and support for a fair peace.

Zelenskyy emphasized that countries genuinely committed to ending the war would support Ukraine's peace plan. However, he also acknowledged the open nature of the plan, welcoming proposals and contributions from other nations.

Switzerland's Balancing Act and Zelenskyy's Visit

Switzerland, known for its neutrality, has faced challenges in navigating its stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. While aligning with European Union sanctions on Russia, the country has sought to maintain a delicate balance in its approach.

Zelenskyy's visit to Switzerland included meetings with parliamentary leaders and a scheduled appearance at the World Economic Forum's annual meeting in Davos. Prior to his meeting with Zelenskyy, President Amherd hosted Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang, who was also en route to Davos. The possibility of a meeting between Zelenskyy and Li Qiang remains uncertain.

China's Role and Zelenskyy's Hopes

Zelenskyy acknowledged China's significant global influence and expressed Ukraine's desire for China's involvement in the peace formula and participation in the peace summit. However, he recognized that the success of the summit does not solely depend on Ukraine's will and expressed hope for the involvement of all civilized countries.