According to Swiss broadcaster SRF, the Swiss government has rejected Denmark’s request for Swiss-made armoured personnel carrier to Ukraine. This was based on its neutrality policy that does not supply arms to conflict zones.
SRF reported that the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs rejected Denmark’s request to supply around 20 Piranha III infantry combat vehicles to Ukraine.
SECO did not respond immediately to a request for comment.
Neutral Switzerland requires that foreign countries who purchase Swiss arms seek permission to reexport them.
It vetoed in April the re-export of Swiss ammunition that was used in anti-aircraft tank tanks by Germany to Ukraine.
Switzerland has abandoned its past practices and adopted sanctions from the European Union to punish Russia for invading Ukraine. Moscow described this incursion as a military operation to disarm, “de-Nazify” Ukraine.
As a result, Swiss neutrality is facing its greatest test in decades. A domestic debate rages about how to interpret the policy that kept Switzerland from both world wars in the 20th century.
