Some would argue far too late, Switzerland imposed a range of sanctions against Russia yesterday.
The pressure from other countries, political parties and the people proved to be too much for the Federal Council and it says Switzerland will match the restrictions imposed by the EU.
The only voices against the move were those from the right-wing Swiss People’s Party, which says it threatens Switzerland’s neutral position.
But the president, Ignazio Cassis, says playing the game of the aggressor is not neutral and as the depository of the Geneva Conventions, Switzerland cannot stand by and watch humanitarian laws being trampled.
The move will hit the Russian economy and many individuals. 300 named people will be blacklisted and their Swiss bank accounts frozen as will other Russian assets.
Swiss airspace will be closed to Russian traffic – although there does seem to be an exception for diplomatic flights.
Switzerland is also supporting cutting off Russia from the SWIFT international payment system.
Figures from the Swiss National Bank show CHF 10bn is held in this country by Russians.
There are worries that there could be retaliatory measures. The Defence Minister Viola Amherd says the government is preparing for energy supply disruption and cyber-attacks.
The move is likely to generally supported by the people. 20,000 gathered in Zurich last night at the Münsterhof, calling for Switzerland to show solidarity with Ukraine.
Geneva blindsided by car tax chaos
Govt backs foie gras
Fairmont to close for 3 yrs
Long term plans for atom waste dump
A12 closed after snow triggering crash
Woman seeks life saving savior
