Leaders from over 90 countries gathered at a summit in Switzerland to discuss peace efforts in Ukraine, with a focus on ending the war that has been ongoing for more than two years since Russia’s invasion. The summit emphasized the need for dialogue between all parties involved to reach a peaceful resolution, while also stressing support for Ukraine’s independence and territorial integrity. A final communique was issued at the end of the summit, affirming the commitment to the territorial integrity of all states and calling for the full exchange of prisoners of war and the return of deported children.
While the majority of the countries present at the summit supported the final communique, some countries such as India, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates did not support the document. The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, expressed his hope to gain international support for a proposal to end the war that he could present to Moscow. However, the summit highlighted the challenges faced by Ukraine as Russia continues to increase pressure on the battlefield, with a new ground offensive launched in the northeastern Kharkiv region. Russian President Vladimir Putin’s call for Ukraine to withdraw from certain regions as a basis for peace talks was met with skepticism.
The summit also addressed issues related to food security, avoiding a nuclear disaster, and the return of deported children from Russia. Despite the absence of Russia and China at the summit, discussions focused on building blocks towards ending the war in Ukraine. The Kremlin continued to urge Ukraine to reflect on Putin’s demands for an effective surrender as the military situation on the ground intensified. Russian officials pointed to the worsening conditions for Ukrainians on the frontlines as a reason for Ukraine to consider the proposal put forth by Putin. However, the demand for Ukraine to withdraw from certain regions was not widely supported at the summit.
The international community emphasized the importance of dialogue and peaceful negotiations to find a resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. The summit highlighted the need for all parties to engage in meaningful discussions to end the war and achieve lasting peace in the region. While challenges persist, including Russia’s continued aggression and demands, the commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity remained a central focus of the discussions. The summit provided a platform for countries to come together and support Ukraine in its efforts to seek peace and stability, despite the ongoing conflict and tensions in the region. Ultimately, the summit underscored the importance of international cooperation and diplomatic efforts to address the crisis in Ukraine and work towards a peaceful resolution.
