Switzerland has confirmed a ban on the transfer of military equipment manufactured by it to Ukraine via a third country, in line with its military neutrality principle. It will remain possible to deliver military equipment in the form of assembly components or spare parts to European arms companies, even amid the possibility of sending military equipment manufactured to Ukraine, according to the Federal Council's decision.
The government announced in a statement that Switzerland received requests from Germany and Denmark to send military equipment to Ukraine.
Germany's request involves the transfer of around 12,400 rounds of 35mm ammunition made in Switzerland for the anti-aircraft tanks of the "Ghibar" type as well as the "Piranha 3" tanks originally purchased by Denmark and currently stationed in Germany since their withdrawal from service.
Denmark's request concerns 22 "Piranha 3" tanks manufactured in Switzerland.
The council clarified that the export of military equipment from Switzerland to Ukraine cannot be allowed due to the equal treatment arising from neutrality law (...) and that it is not possible to approve the requests from Germany and Denmark regarding the transfer of military equipment to Ukraine.
The government is also reviewing two requests to export military equipment submitted by Swiss companies to deliver spare parts and assembly components to arms companies in Germany and Italy.
One of the requests involves components for anti-tank rocket launchers while the other is for components designated for air defense.
The government indicated that the two deals pose a risk of using some components in the manufacture of military equipment that will later be delivered to Ukraine.
It added that the delivery of military equipment in the form of spare parts and assembly is allowed in principle, provided that the components in the final product do not exceed 50% for countries like Italy and Germany.
Bern affirmed that the Federal Council decided to continue this practice, considering that these exports comply with neutrality law.
