Zelensky Urges Global Support Ahead of Switzerland Peace Summit
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is amplifying diplomatic efforts as tensions escalate in Russia's war against Ukraine. With the peace summit scheduled for June 15 and 16 in Switzerland, Zelensky used his platform at the Asian Security Conference in Singapore to galvanize international backing. He criticized Chinese influence, stating that it hampers peace efforts. More than 100 countries and organizations have confirmed their participation, boosting the summit's potential impact.
Focus Areas of the Lucerne Peace Summit
The summit near Lucerne will zero in on three principal issues: the exchange of prisoners, food security, and nuclear safety. Zelensky intends to present a comprehensive plan to press Russia for the return of 20,000 kidnapped Ukrainian children. Germany has voiced strong support, emphasizing the significance of joint efforts for a peaceful resolution. Tobias Lindner, State Secretary in the Foreign Office, committed to rallying further international participation.
China, however, maintains a neutral stance. Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun emphasized that China hasn't supplied weapons to any conflict parties and has implemented stricter export controls on dual-use items. Despite Zelensky's criticism, China asserts that its contributions to peace efforts should not be underestimated.
During the conference in Singapore, Zelensky met with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, underscoring the importance of a high-level US presence at the summit. Although President Joe Biden may not attend, Zelensky expressed gratitude for the recent military aid from the United States, aimed at enabling limited strikes against Russian territory.
In additional bilateral discussions, Zelensky secured commitments from East Timor and the Philippines. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. affirmed his country's support, though it's uncertain if he will personally attend. The collective international participation aims to heighten the pressure on Russia for a peaceful resolution.
- Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning expressed that China's participation in the peace summit would be challenging due to the nature of the meeting.
- Zelensky's comments accused China of aiding Russia in sabotaging the peace summit, a claim staunchly denied by Chinese officials.
