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Switzerland, one of the major producers of weapons and ammunition in Europe, will allow the export of some types of military equipment to Ukraine, the Federal Council - the country's government - has decided.

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Until now, Switzerland did not export arms to Ukraine and refused to allow the re-export of weapons and ammunition produced by it to other countries, citing its military neutrality.

Under the new government decision, it is now possible to grant exemptions from the arms embargo on demining equipment used in Ukraine, with each request being assessed on a case-by-case basis, a government statement said.

Germany asked Switzerland to send weapons to Ukraine

When issuing an export license, steps will be taken to ensure that the material is used legally and for its intended purpose, the announcement quoted by "Dnevnik" also said.

According to the Ukrainian government, nearly a third of Ukraine's territory should be demined after the end of the war.

Because of its military neutrality, Switzerland has twice already refused Germany permission to re-export weapons to Ukraine, including Swiss-made 35mm shells for the Cheetah anti-aircraft guns that Berlin gave to the Ukrainian army back in April.

Ban on drone services and engines

The Swiss government has decided to join the ninth package of sanctions against Russia adopted by the EU in December.

So far, Bern applies all European restrictive measures, as a European Economic Area and Schengen country.

From 19:00 Bulgarian time on Wednesday, the export to Russia of various goods, including dual-use goods, goods for military and technological modernization and for the development of the defense and security sector, as well as goods that contribute to the increase of Russian industrial capacity, has been suspended .

The government's announcement makes it clear that the list of banned goods for the aerospace industry will be expanded to include aircraft and drone engines.

Switzerland suspended visa agreement with Russia

Swiss companies and individuals will be prohibited from providing a range of services to Russian business and administration, including product testing, advertising activities, market and public opinion research services, the government said.

A restriction on new investments in the Russian mining sector is also introduced.

In December, Switzerland already added 200 more Russian citizens, companies and organizations to its sanctions list, adopting the latest additions to EU restrictions on their entry into European countries.

T Access to their banking assets in European banks was prohibited, as well as their participation in projects financed with European funds.

Russian invasion of Ukraine