President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine took center stage at a peace conference in Switzerland to strengthen support for Ukraine’s positions in the conflict with Russia. However, some countries questioned the value of peace talks without Russia’s involvement. Zelensky defended Russia’s absence by stating that if Russia truly desired peace, there would be no war. The conference, attended by Vice President Kamala Harris, focused on nuclear safety, food security, and humanitarian issues like prisoner exchanges.
Initially facing resistance to his full peace plan, Zelensky and Swiss hosts concentrated on finding common ground among participating countries. Many leaders, including Saudi Arabia and Turkey, emphasized that Russia’s participation in any credible process is essential. The absence of China, seen as influential on Russia, and Brazil raised concerns about the effectiveness of talks not involving the warring sides directly. Despite assertions that peace talks without Russia are futile, Zelensky remains committed to building consensus and inviting Russia to future negotiations.
Zelensky outlined a strategy to negotiate collectively with Russia after securing support from allies and neutral nations. Key objectives include developing unified principles for peace and communicating an action plan to Russia at a second summit. While emphasizing the need for an end to the war through negotiation, Zelensky has not set specific conditions for Russia’s involvement at this stage. Meanwhile, President Putin’s cease-fire proposal, calling for concessions from Ukraine and an end to Western sanctions, was met with skepticism by the US and its allies.
Vice President Harris announced new US financing for Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and aid for refugees at the summit. She urged leaders to prioritize the return of children kidnapped by Russia to their homes. Despite President Biden’s absence, the US remains committed to supporting Ukraine’s security and humanitarian needs. Criticizing China’s non-participation, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan vowed to explore practical solutions for Ukraine’s security challenges.
Debates about the effectiveness of a peace conference without Russia’s direct involvement persist among analysts and diplomats. While some fear that the summit may result in diplomatic setbacks for Ukraine, others see value in promoting Ukraine’s vision for a postwar order in Eastern Europe that prevents Russian expansionism. The conference serves as a platform to rally support for Ukraine’s terms in negotiations and shape the discourse around ending the conflict. The outcome of the summit and potential future talks with Russia will be closely monitored for signs of progress towards peace in the region.
