Why did Switzerland break its historical neutrality and impose sanctions on Russia? | Ukraine and Russia

The Russia He is the only 23rd business partner of SwitzerlandAnd the But the country’s banks are among the favorites of Russian fortunes. Many Russian oligarchs have interests in big Swiss companies..

Moreover, 80% of Russian oil and gas deals take place in SwitzerlandAccording to estimates quoted by the country’s newspapers.

In recent days, the Swiss authorities – who seemed reluctant to apply sanctions after the invasion – have come under intense pressure to join the European Union and EU countries. we.

Who are the targets of sanctions?

He added, “Due to the continued military intervention of the forces of the Russia at UkraineThe Federal Council took a decision on February 28 to adopt the sanctions packages imposed by the European Union on February 23 and 25,” the government said in a statement.

The Switzerland It also adopted financial sanctions against the Russian President Russian President Vladimir PutinPrime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, come into effect immediately.

Finance Minister Ueli Maurer stressed that the asset freeze of people on the EU’s negative list “has an immediate effect”.

“The Switzerland affirms solidarity with Ukraine and its people. It will deliver emergency supplies to people who have fled to Poland,” the government also makes an offer to mediate in the conflict.

Justice Minister Karen Keeler-Sutter also said that five Russian or Ukrainian emperors are “very close to… Russian President Vladimir PutinAnd with very important links in Switzerland Banned from entering the country. Their identities have not been revealed.

These people do not have a residence permit in Switzerlandbut they are importantEconomic relations, particularly in finance and raw materials“, he added.