Russia declares it does not consider Switzerland neutral
Moscow believes that Switzerland has abandoned its neutrality after joining EU sanctions against Russia over the conflict in Ukraine.
 |
A series of Western countries have imposed sweeping sanctions on Russia over the conflict in Ukraine. Photo: AP |
According to European news site euronews.com, Russia said on August 11 that it no longer considers Switzerland a neutral country, rejecting Switzerland's offer to mediate between Kiev and Moscow.
Russia has rejected Switzerland's proposal to represent Ukraine's interests in Russia and Russia's interests in Ukraine, making it clear that Moscow knows whose side it is on.
Switzerland has a long history of neutrality and often acts as a mediator between countries with poor relations.
However, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ivan Nechayev said this was impossible in the current situation.
"We have responded very clearly that Switzerland has unfortunately lost its status as a neutral country and cannot play a mediating or representative role. Switzerland has joined the Western sanctions against Russia," the spokesman said.
Earlier, Swiss media reported that the main goal of the proposal from this country is to allow Ukrainians living in Russia to receive consular services from the Swiss Embassy in Moscow.
Last week, the Swiss government adopted some of the latest measures imposed by the EU, including a ban on the purchase, import or transport of gold and gold products from Russia.
Announcing the Swiss government's move in late February 2022 to break with the country's traditional neutrality and punish Russia, President Ignazio Cassis said the "extraordinary situation" in Ukraine required "extraordinary measures" in response.