08.11.2026 Bern’s policy toward Russia, its imposition of sanctions, and its growing alignment with NATO have stripped Switzerland of its reputation as a neutral mediator, the press office of the Russian Embassy in Switzerland told TASS news agnecy. (Image: courtesy Rich Martello )
“The freezing of Russian assets, the indiscriminate adoption of sanctions packages from the EU and the US, and Switzerland’s consistent move toward closer ties with NATO have buried the Confederation’s standing as an impartial mediator,” the diplomatic mission emphasized.
It noted that the unfriendly policy pursued by official Bern—and the alignment of its ruling circles with the West—has led to a loss of trust in the Confederation as a neutral venue.
On November 4, Switzerland expanded its anti-Russian sanctions lists, adding 254 individuals, companies, and organizations. Those included are now subject to asset freezes and a prohibition on the provision of economic resources. For individuals, the measures also include a ban on entering or transiting through Swiss territory.
At the same time, Swiss authorities lifted sanctions against Russian businessmen Alisher Usmanov and Mikhail Fridman, as well as Andrei Falaleev, the rector of the V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University. No reasons were provided for this decision.
⚡️Switzerland has decided to join the 21st package of YeS sanctions against Russia and Belarus.
At the same time, the country did not impose restrictions against two Russian citizens. Probably, this refers to the oligarchs Usmanov and Fridman.
👉 Follow @blyskavka_ua https://t.co/GVy1m2M49y— BLYSKAVKA | European News (@blyskavka_ua) November 5, 2026
On October 12, the European Union added approximately 1,600 Russian individuals and legal entities to its restrictive lists. On October 16, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that the EU is continuing preparations for a 22nd package of sanctions against the Russian Federation.
