Parliament says it's OK to send arms to Ukraine

Thursday, 26 January 2023 06:30

A parliamentary committee is recommending allowing Swiss arms to be re-exported to another country, such as Ukraine.

Under current rules – any country which buys Swiss weapons can’t resell or donate them to a third country unless Bern allows them to.

Permission has already been denied to Germany and Spain.

But the House of Representatives Security Policy Committee says Switzerland needs to make a contribution to European security.

The government is under increasing international pressure to change the rules.

The committee says allowing the re-export would not violate neutrality since the weapons would be sent from another country.

More from Bitesize News

Economic outlook uncertain for this year

Switzerland’s economic outlook remains cautious, with the KOF Swiss Economic Institute forecasting growth of around one percent in 2026,although that depends on falling oil prices.
Geneva bans the burkini

Geneva’s parliament has voted to ban the burkini in public swimming pools, ending months of heated debate.
Birthday candles banned in Geneva schools

In response to the fire in Crans Montana, birthday candles have been banned in Geneva’s primary schools.
Transit tax moves closer

Switzerland is moving closer to introducing a transit tax for foreign vehicles crossing the country.
Fake Nyon officer fined

A man in his fifties has been convicted in Vaud after impersonating a police officer in several towns, including Rolle and Nyon.
Heavy traffic this Easter

Heavy traffic is expected across Switzerland over the Easter holiday period, particularly on the A2 Gotthard autoroute and the A13 San Bernardino route from March 27.