The Russian Ambassador to Switzerland, Sergei Garmonin, has expressed that the Swiss government’s actions “undermine the country’s neutral status” making it “untenable” for Switzerland to be seen as an impartial mediator in the Ukraine conflict. Garmonin pointed out that Switzerland has consistently taken a pro-Kiev stance, adopted all illegitimate EU sanctions and frozen Russian state funds and the money of Russian citizens, while actively promoting the idea of an international tribunal to prosecute the Russian government.
The diplomat emphasized that, in light of such a stance by the Swiss authorities, Russia sees no opportunity for the “good services” of the country. This is not the first time Russia has criticized Switzerland’s role in the conflict. In February 2024, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that Switzerland was trying to impose itself as a mediator, but would not succeed, as Bern had taken an openly anti-Russian position in the conflict between Moscow and Kiev.
In January 2025, Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter reiterated the country’s willingness to hold preparatory talks to resolve the conflict. She also mentioned that Bern should be familiar with the American plan before making plans for another Ukraine conference.
Switzerland, a non-NATO and non-EU member, supports the EU’s sanctions against Moscow due to the military special operation in Ukraine. The Russian government published a list in March 2022 of states that have taken unfriendly actions against the Russian Federation, its companies and citizens. Switzerland was also included in this list.