Wed Aug 20 02:25:27 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Several European nations, including Switzerland and Austria, are offering to host peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, even with the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin. French President Macron suggested Switzerland as a neutral location, and both Switzerland and Austria are prepared to navigate legal complexities to allow Putin’s participation for peace negotiations. While Switzerland has a history of neutrality and hosting international dialogues, Russia has cooled towards it due to Swiss sanctions aligning with the EU. Austria also offered Vienna as a venue, highlighting its tradition as a place of dialogue. The article also mentions that Turkey has hosted previous bilateral talks between Russia and Ukraine.

**News Article:**

**European Nations Offer to Host Peace Talks, Even for Putin**

**Geneva – August 20, 2025** – Despite an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant hanging over his head, Russian President Vladimir Putin may have a place to negotiate peace with Ukraine, as several European nations are vying to host potential talks.

Switzerland and Austria publicly stated Tuesday they would be willing to welcome Putin for peace negotiations, even amidst the ICC warrant related to the alleged unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children. French President Emmanuel Macron has championed Switzerland, known for its neutrality, as a fitting venue. “I’m pushing for Geneva,” he stated.

Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis confirmed that, under specific conditions, Putin would be allowed entry, citing a framework for granting immunity for international peace conferences. “If this person comes for a peace conference — not if they come for private reasons,” Cassis clarified. However, he also noted that Russia’s relations with Switzerland have cooled since the country aligned with EU sanctions against Moscow.

Austria echoed Switzerland’s willingness, with Chancellor Christian Stocker stating they would contact the ICC to facilitate Putin’s attendance should peace talks occur in Vienna. “Our capital has a long tradition as a place of dialogue,” Stocker stated, referencing Vienna’s history of hosting international organizations.

While past bilateral talks between Russia and Ukraine took place in Istanbul, these renewed offers signal a potential shift in diplomatic efforts towards a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.

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