Switzerland’s upper house of parliament has taken a strong stance against foreign spies, particularly targeting Russian intelligence agents ahead of a major summit aimed at peace in Ukraine. The motion to “systematically expel Russian spies and other foreign spies” was backed by President Viola Amherd and received overwhelming support with 32 votes in favor and only nine against.
President Amherd emphasized the need for Switzerland to defend its security and react to violations by foreign states. The government aims to expel intelligence officers whose activities pose a threat to Switzerland’s security or its role as a host state. Lawmaker Franziska Roth highlighted Switzerland’s attractiveness to spies due to the concentration of international organizations in the country, with Russian spies being a particular concern according to domestic intelligence services.
Roth argued for “zero tolerance” towards spying and the need to strengthen mechanisms for controlling and expelling spies. The motion, already approved by the lower house, now requires government action. Switzerland is set to host a summit near Lucerne on June 15-16 to facilitate a future peace process over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with Russia not invited due to its stated lack of interest in participating.
The tough measures against spies come at a crucial time as Switzerland prepares to play a key role in international efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine. The government’s commitment to defending its security and sovereignty is evident in its proactive approach to expelling foreign intelligence agents.