Switzerland bans the shipment of certain military equipment from Spain to Ukraine. This was said by Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles in an interview with Spanish ambassadors on Tuesday. With its veto, Switzerland currently prevents any transport of military equipment from Spain to Ukraine.
According to Robles, Spain is trying to provide Ukraine with military support. But to send certain “materials, we need some kind of permission from Switzerland, which they are not currently granting us”. For example, Spain is prevented by Switzerland from participating in its “legitimate defense” against the “unjust, illegal and cruel” Russians.
Limited understanding of Swiss neutrality
“We understand, respect and accept Switzerland’s neutrality,” Robles told Europapress. The minister reaffirmed the need to increase defense spending given the global “uncertainty”. “A missile can reach Madrid from Moscow,” Robles said.
For certain weapons, the country of manufacture must be re-exported. But Switzerland does not give the green light. According to Robles, Madrid will make every effort to obtain the correct permits in Bern. Robles did not say what military equipment was involved. (kes)