Around 2,000 demonstrators gather in solidarity with Ukraine on war's third anniversary, as Swiss president reaffirms support in Kyiv summit.
"We must act"
"It is clear that a lasting solution cannot be achieved without Ukraine"
In a powerful display of solidarity with Ukraine, approximately 2,000 demonstrators gathered in Zurich on Monday evening to mark the third anniversary of Russia's invasion. The demonstration, organized by the Helvetia For Ukraine association, began at Helvetiaplatz at 6 PM, with protesters marching through the city carrying banners and Ukrainian flags. The procession culminated at the Rathausbrücke bridge, where several speakers addressed the crowd in a final rally.
The organizers emphasized the urgency of continued support, stating emphatically that 'We must act' as the war enters its 1,096th day. The demonstration aimed to send a clear message of solidarity and support for 'freedom and justice, and for light against darkness.'
Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter reaffirmed Switzerland's unwavering support for Ukraine during the Support Ukraine Summit 2025 in Kyiv. Speaking via video conference, she emphasized that any lasting solution must include Ukraine's participation. The Swiss government has recently committed CHF1.5 billion ($1.67 billion) for Ukraine's reconstruction efforts through 2028, focusing on urban infrastructure restoration and emergency aid.
Switzerland's support extends beyond financial assistance, with the country playing a crucial role in diplomatic initiatives, including hosting the Bürgenstock conference in June 2024 and the mine action conference in Lausanne last October.
The solidarity movement extended beyond Zurich, with parallel demonstrations taking place across Switzerland. In Lausanne, approximately 200 people gathered at Place du 14 juin, where participants lit candles and observed a minute of silence for war victims. Speakers at the Lausanne rally emphasized the critical importance of supporting Ukraine, particularly in light of geopolitical developments and the rise of right-wing populism in Europe.
These coordinated demonstrations reflect Switzerland's broader commitment to supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and humanitarian needs, while also highlighting the Swiss public's continued engagement with the conflict.
Looking ahead, Switzerland is set to enhance its role in promoting peace and security in Europe. The country will chair the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in 2026, providing an additional platform for supporting diplomatic solutions to the conflict. The Swiss government's commitment of CHF1.5 billion through 2028 will focus on critical areas including urban infrastructure reconstruction, secure basic supply restoration, and ongoing emergency aid.
This long-term commitment demonstrates Switzerland's dedication to supporting Ukraine's recovery and reconstruction efforts, while maintaining its traditional role as a neutral facilitator of peace and stability in Europe.