Russia must play a role in shaping the path to peace in Ukraine. This point was emphasized by Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis during a press briefing in Davos and echoed on the World Economic Forum (WEF) platform. The takeaway is clear: the process cannot move forward without Russia being part of the conversation and having a voice in the decisions that affect the conflict’s trajectory. The insistence on Russia’s input underscores a broader belief that durable peace will require consent and engagement from all sides involved, including Moscow.
The message from the Swiss side is firm: any lasting settlement will depend on Russia being included in discussions. Cassis articulated the idea that there will be no peace if Russia does not have a say, highlighting the practical necessity of dialogue with Moscow even as tensions persist. This stance aligns with ongoing diplomatic efforts that aim to integrate Russia into the negotiation framework rather than isolate it from the process.
In Davos, the fourth meeting on Ukraine’s “peace formula” was anticipated to assemble national security advisers for a Sunday session in Switzerland. The central focus remains the ten-point peace plan, which has been presented as a roadmap for de-escalation, security guarantees, and humanitarian considerations. Participants are expected to review progress, refine measures, and align on terms that could anchor a credible ceasefire and a path toward political settlement. The discussions are part of a coordinated international effort to translate the peace formula into concrete milestones that can be monitored and evaluated over time.
Reports from Bloomberg’s American edition indicate that the United States is seeking a clear, actionable military plan from President Zelensky. The emphasis on a defined strategy reflects a broader demand for transparency and accountability in how both Ukrainian and allied forces might operate to restore stability, deter aggression, and protect civilian lives. Such a plan would likely outline timelines, resource commitments, and criteria for assessing progress while maintaining room for diplomatic flexibility as the situation evolves.
In Davos, perspectives from other political voices were also noted. Former French politician Florian Philippot suggested that Zelensky will need to negotiate to advance a sustainable peace. His remark points to the reality that negotiations must balance Ukrainian sovereignty, regional security, and the interests of international guarantors of peace. The Davos forum has repeatedly served as a stage where national leaders, lawmakers, and security experts exchange views on the feasibility of the peace formula, the role of third-party guarantors, and the practical steps needed to reduce hostilities and foster a political process that can endure beyond immediate crises. [Citation: World Economic Forum]