The picturesque Bürgenstock resort in central Switzerland is set to host the upcoming Ukraine peace talks, with 160 delegations invited to participate. However, the

Swiss government clarified on Thursday that, for now, Russia is not among the invited delegations.

In a statement, the Swiss government emphasized the importance of involving Russia in the peace process, asserting that a meaningful resolution to the conflict between Moscow and Ukraine requires Russia's participation.

Despite Switzerland's consistent openness to inviting Russia, Moscow has repeatedly declined to participate in the initial summit. Russian officials have cited Switzerland's alignment with European Union (EU) sanctions against Russia over its Ukraine invasion as a reason for their reluctance to engage, questioning Switzerland's neutrality as a mediator.

The decision to host a peace summit was made in response to a request from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. The invited delegations include representatives from the G7, G20, BRICS groups, the EU, international organizations, and two religious representatives.

Switzerland reaffirmed its commitment to establishing a framework for lasting peace in Ukraine and outlined its intention to develop a roadmap for Russia's involvement in the peace process. The talks are scheduled to take place on June 15-16 at the Bürgenstock resort in the canton of Nidwalden, situated outside the city of Lucerne. Photo by Emanuel Ammon/AURA, Wikimedia commons.