In Switzerland, a significant peace summit has convened to address the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, drawing over 100 global leaders to support Ukraine’s quest for a ‘just and lasting peace’. The summit, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky considers a success, aims to establish a platform for future negotiations, focusing on a 10-point peace plan that includes a ceasefire, the restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity, and the withdrawal of Russian troops. Despite Russia’s absence, the summit has produced a two-page document emphasizing nuclear security, food security, and prisoners of war, reflecting Ukraine’s 10-point initiative known as the ‘Zelensky formula’ presented in November 2022. US Vice President Kamala Harris announced a substantial $1.5 billion aid package to assist Ukraine in rebuilding its infrastructure and addressing humanitarian needs. The summit has been marked by the notable absence of China and Russia, with China citing the lack of an invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin as its reason for not attending. The Swiss President Viola Amherd has stated that the summit’s goal is to prepare an international space for direct talks and to determine the conditions under which Russia can be brought to the negotiating table in the future. The summit’s outcome is seen as a step towards direct talks with Russia, with Swiss government officials expressing hope that Russian representatives will join the discussion on a peaceful resolution in Ukraine at some point. The event is regarded as a sign of international solidarity with Ukraine and a way to gain broad support for the Ukrainian peace plan, despite the challenges posed by the absence of key players.
Key points
- Over 100 global leaders gathered in Switzerland to support Ukraine’s 10-point peace plan and discuss future negotiations with Russia.
- US Vice President Kamala Harris announced a $1.
- The summit produced a two-page document focusing on nuclear security, food security, and prisoners of war, advancing towards direct talks with Russia.
- China and Russia’s absence from the summit raises questions about the effectiveness of the talks, with China citing a lack of invitation from Putin.
- Swiss President Viola Amherd emphasized the summit’s role in preparing for future negotiations and the importance of the UN Charter principles.
5 billion aid package for Ukraine’s reconstruction and humanitarian efforts.
