Federal Council rejects export request for Leopard 1 A5 tanks destined for Ukraine
Bern, 28.06.2023 - On 28 June, the Federal Council rejected a request from Ruag AG concerning the export of 96 Leopard 1 A5 tanks destined for Ukraine as it is inconsistent with applicable law. It has therefore given priority to Switzerland's commitments as a neutral country and to the reliability of its application of the rule of law.
On 27 April, Ruag AG submitted an export request to SECO for the re-sale of 96 used and non-operational Leopard 1 A5 tanks. The tanks are currently in storage in Italy and would require refurbishment in Germany before being re-exported to Ukraine.
The Federal Council has concluded that the sale of the 96 tanks is not possible under the law as it stands. In particular, such a sale would contravene the War Materiel Act and would result in a shift from Switzerland's policy of neutrality.
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GS-EAER Communications
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The Federal Council
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Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research
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