Switzerland considers allowing the re-export of weapons to Ukraine

The Security Policy Commission of the Swiss National Council adopted a decision that permits the transfer of weapons to Ukraine from other countries.

This is reported on the website of the country’s parliament.

The Commission supported the submission and deputy initiative on the re-export of weapons.

It is noted that non-export declarations may be canceled if the ban on the use of force under international law is violated, as is the case of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.

“Switzerland must contribute to European security and provide more support to Ukraine accordingly,” it said.

The proposal was supported by 14 members of the commission, and 11 voted against it.

Most of them believe that the change in legislation will not violate the neutrality of Switzerland.

After the change in legislation, namely the Federal Act on War Materiel, the Swiss government will be able to announce the cancellation of the declaration of non-export of weapons by the country that acquired it from Switzerland.

In the event of a positive decision, the changes in the legislation will come into force on May 1, 2023, and will remain in force until December 31, 2025.

The decision to permit the re-export will be valid only if the decisions of third countries concern the supply of weapons to Ukraine.

Previously, Swiss President Alain Berset stated that the country does not plan to allow the re-export of weapons to Ukraine from Germany and Spain.

Prior to that, Bern denied Berlin the re-export of the Gepard SPAAG ammunition for Ukraine.

Switzerland also did not provide permission to Spain to transfer Aspide air defense systems to Ukraine. The missiles to this system have Swiss-made components.