Switzerland turns down requests to send weapons to a third country

The government of Switzerland declared it would not transfer Swiss-made weapons to a third country despite mounting pressure from European countries to do so.

"The Federal Council is dedicated to Swiss neutrality ideals and will continue to endeavour to ensure the advantages of neutrality are realised," the Federal Council said in a statement.

But, it added it will continue to watch the talks and issue a subsequent remark "if required".

Since Russia invaded Ukraine more than a year ago, calls for Switzerland to abandon its neutral status have grown both within and globally.

Two parliamentary committees recommended that the regulations be relaxed in January.

During a meeting, the cabinet, however, rejected the call.