Switzerland's Neutrality in Jeopardy Amid Russia-Ukraine War

Once renowned for its unwavering neutrality, Switzerland's approach is being tested by the ongoing war in Ukraine, as economic and security interests align it more closely with Western Europe.

As the Russia-Ukraine war enters its third Easter, Switzerland's traditionally neutral stance is facing unprecedented challenges. The country's decision to host a Ukraine peace summit, without inviting Russia, has highlighted the evolving dynamics between its neutrality and evolving global alliances.

Western diplomats and Swiss foreign policy experts believe that the summit will prioritize mitigating risks from Russia's invasion and isolating the nation. Switzerland, while maintaining its neutrality, emphasizes its condemnation of Russia's aggression and supports Ukraine's solidarity.

The focus of the summit will be on matters of global concern, including nuclear safety, navigation freedom, food security, and humanitarian issues. Switzerland has extended invitations to over 160 delegations, including Russia's allies from the Global South, in an attempt to foster consensus and potentially increase pressure on Moscow to make concessions.

Support for the summit from European nations is growing, with attendance confirmed from leaders including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, and Polish President Andrzej Duda.

However, Switzerland's neutrality is not without its critics. Former Swiss ambassador Thomas Borer argues that the country's economic and security interests align heavily with Western Europe, making it imperative to support Ukraine. He notes that Switzerland's exports primarily go to Western nations, with less than 1% reaching Russia.

Lawmaker Franziska Roth emphasizes Switzerland's obligation to uphold international law and assist Ukraine in its recovery, advocating for prioritizing these actions over conventional notions of neutrality.

On the other hand, former ambassador Daniel Woker believes that neutrality is deeply ingrained in Swiss society and discarding it would be a significant shift. A recent study revealed that 91% of Swiss support maintaining neutrality, although 26% support taking a clear stance in foreign conflicts, indicating a growing shift in views.

The right-wing Swiss People's Party (SVP) vehemently opposes Switzerland's support for Ukraine, viewing it as a violation of neutrality and detrimental to the country's prosperity. The party has initiated a referendum to enshrine neutrality in the constitution, scheduled for 2025.

As the war in Ukraine continues, Switzerland's neutrality is being tested and redefined. The country's upcoming peace summit and the evolving geopolitical landscape will shape the future of its foreign policy approach.