The Swiss government said on Wednesday that people in occupied regions who switch to Russian citizenship will not be welcome in the Alpine state.
Russia has illegally annexed parts of Ukraine and Georgia, declaring them breakaway states and offering Russian passports to occupants.
“The EU sees this as a violation of international law and the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of the two countries [Ukraine and Georgia],” the Swiss government stated.
The European Union decided not to accept travel documents from such new Russian citizens on December 8. Switzerland has now decided to follow suit.
People living in these areas who were already Russian citizens will not be affected and other exceptions may be made, such as minors.
Swiss study shows increased suicide risk of ‘traditional’ men
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Men with an attachment to traditional male role models have an increased risk of suicide, although not all men are equally at risk, according to researchers at the University of Zurich.
Swiss rail expansion bill nearly doubles as extra costs mount up
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The expansion of the rail infrastructure up to 2035 will be significantly more expensive than previously planned. In addition to the CHF16.4 billion already approved by Parliament, a further CHF14 billion will be required.
Swiss-EU negotiations on ‘last mile’, says Swiss foreign minister
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Discussions with the European Union on how to re-forge relations with Switzerland are at an advanced stage, according to Swiss foreign minister Ignazio Cassis.
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It is not necessary to define Swiss neutrality more strictly, according to the Swiss government. The Federal Council has rejected the so-called “neutrality initiative”.
Swiss government to improve disaster alert system via mobile phones
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The Federal Council wants to modernise the disaster warning system for the population with alerts sent via the mobile phone network and other digital channels.
Poll: most Swiss believe littering is steadily decreasing
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Littering is steadily decreasing in Switzerland, according to an annual survey conducted by the Swiss Center of Excellence against Littering.
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The Federal Criminal Court has acquitted UBS following appeal proceedings in connection with money laundering charges linked to the Bulgarian mafia. The bank inherited the case from Credit Suisse.
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The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB/CFF) timetable change on December 15 will bring improvements for commuters. It will also have new night-time connections on long-distance and regional services.
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