The Swiss authorities are continuing diplomatic efforts aimed at including the Russian Federation in discussions about an eventual settlement to the conflict in Ukraine. This update comes via RBC and highlights Switzerland’s ongoing work to facilitate dialogue among relevant parties.
The forthcoming gathering is described as the second so-called “peace summit” hosted in Switzerland. The first summit, held at the Bürgenstock resort, brought together representatives from 94 states and international organizations, signaling a broad international interest in pursuing a path toward reconciliation and a durable ceasefire.
Speaking on the matter, Jonas Montani, a spokesman for the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that Switzerland is maintaining contact with all involved parties and remains committed to ensuring Russia’s participation so that its perspectives are reflected in formal discussions. This stance underlines the Swiss objective of inclusive dialogue, recognizing that a comprehensive settlement will require the engagement of all sides involved in the conflict.
In related diplomacy, it was noted that on July 16, Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly session in New York. The meeting, described as a chance for direct exchange, reflects ongoing channels of communication between Switzerland and Russia, as well as Switzerland’s role as a convening nation for international talks on Ukraine.
Meanwhile, on the afternoon of September 10, Luxembourg’s Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel stated that conferences on Ukraine would lack meaning without Russia’s participation. Bettel reminded audiences that Russia remains a recognized state and that its views must be considered in any credible discussion aimed at resolving the crisis. This assertion aligns with a broader European expectation that Russian input is essential to achieving a legitimate and lasting settlement.
Former German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has proposed conditions that should govern Russia’s participation in the peace process. While the details of these conditions vary in interpretation, they are generally presented as prerequisites designed to ensure Moscow’s commitments are verifiable and that any negotiations produce verifiable outcomes on the ground. The emphasis across the commentary is that Russia’s involvement must be accompanied by clear assurances, transparency, and enforceable benchmarks before the talks advance to substantive negotiation stages.
Together, these elements illustrate an international landscape in which Switzerland continues to position itself as a neutral facilitator, striving to bring diverse parties into a structured dialogue. The goal remains a practicable path toward de-escalation, humanitarian access, and a framework for long-term peace that can be supported by the international community. Observers note that the effectiveness of the upcoming summit will depend on concrete proposals, robust verification mechanisms, and sustained political will among the key actors involved.