Swiss President Advocates Easing Arms Re-Export Ban to Ukraine

Viola Amherd proposes policy change, citing impacts on Swiss defense industry and security concerns.

Switzerland's President Viola Amherd supports lifting the ban on re-exporting Swiss-made arms to Ukraine, highlighting the negative effects on the country's defense industry.
The Swiss parliament has recommended easing the arms re-export rules, but the government has previously upheld its longstanding policy of neutrality.
Amherd notes that countries like the Netherlands have stopped purchasing Swiss arms due to re-export restrictions, affecting Switzerland's global arms trade position.
Despite its neutral stance, Switzerland was the 14th largest arms supplier globally in 2022, but saw a decline in sales in 2023 attributed to its neutrality.
Amherd emphasizes the need for Switzerland to invest more in European security and strengthen ties with partners, including NATO, after years of insufficient defense investment.