In Switzerland, a peace summit aimed at ending the war in Ukraine is underway, despite the absence of key players Russia and China. The summit, hosted in a resort above Lake Lern, has attracted high-level delegations from around 90 countries, although expectations are tempered by the notable non-participation of China and Russia. The immediate goal of the summit appears to focus on mapping out the first steps towards peace, with discussions anticipated on less controversial aspects of Ukraine’s peace plan, including the return of Ukrainian prisoners and children, nuclear safety, and ensuring the flow of Ukrainian food exports. The absence of Russia, criticized for not being prepared to negotiate seriously, underscores the challenges ahead in achieving a comprehensive peace agreement.
The summit in Switzerland focuses on initiating steps towards peace in Ukraine, with Russia and China absent.
About 90 countries have sent representatives, indicating broad international interest despite key absences.
Discussions at the summit are expected to cover the return of Ukrainian prisoners and children, nuclear safety, and the continuity of Ukrainian food exports.
Ukraine aims to highlight the least controversial aspects of its peace plan, while also addressing the demand for Russian forces to return to 1991 borders.
Russia’s recent statements have been criticized, reinforcing the decision not to invite them to the summit due to a lack of readiness to negotiate.
Successful mediation efforts, such as those by the United Arab Emirates in prisoner exchanges, are highlighted as examples of possible diplomatic achievements.
The summit is seen as a success in terms of optics and the willingness of countries to listen to Ukraine, despite the challenges in achieving a comprehensive peace plan.
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