Swiss foreign minister and Federal Councillor, in office since 2017
Voters have rejected a plan to enshrine a narrowly defined, “perpetual and armed” neutrality in the Swiss constitution, defeating the far-right SVP-backed initiative. Projections show a majority backed preserving flexible neutrality, allowing sanctions and NATO cooperation as needed. Outcome preserves government discretion amid evolving European security pressures.
Swiss voters have rejected a proposal to enshrine a strictly defined, armed neutrality in the constitution, with final results showing about 70% opposing the measure. The government and major parties had warned this would curb flexibility in applying neutrality amid sanctions regimes and NATO ties.
North Korea has displayed new attack drones, held weapon tests and has called for rapid expansion of unmanned aeronautical technology, state media report. Seoul has detected recent missile and drone launches and has reorganised its own forces to prioritise drone and counter-drone capabilities as tensions remain high after border incidents.
Swiss Vice President Cassis has visited North Korea on a three-day trip, reopening a Swiss diplomatic office and signaling a push for regular political dialogue. North Korea remains under sanctions; Switzerland aims to strengthen direct contacts and regional stability. The visit follows recent engagements by other Western states and regional tensions.