Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, has called for a peace summit in Switzerland next month that would include China and countries of the Global South. However, Russia is not expected to attend due to uncertainty around its participation. The Swiss government announced that it will host a high-level conference for Ukraine in mid-June.
During a recent visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin to China, the two leaders emphasized their countries’ ties as a stabilizing force in an increasingly chaotic world. While China has positioned itself as a neutral party in the conflict and attempted to play a mediator role, it has faced criticism for not condemning Moscow’s offensive.
Zelensky believes that if countries send delegations to Switzerland for the peace summit, it would signify support for Russia’s actions. He outlined three key issues for discussion at the summit: ensuring free navigation in the Black Sea for Ukrainian grain exports to enhance global food security, reaching an agreement to stop strikes on energy infrastructures, and advocating for the return of children deported to Russia back to Ukraine.
If there is consensus on these three steps with most countries agreeing, it could potentially prevent further Russian opposition and be a significant move forward in the peace process.
