(VOVWORLD) - The highest level of security measures are being imposed for the Ukraine peace conference, which will open this Friday in Switzerland, said Swiss officials.
 Swiss President Viola Amherd (C) attends a press conference in Bern, Switzerland, June 10, 2024 (Photo: Reuters) |
4,000 or more military personnel will be deployed, according to the Swiss Federal Council. The Swiss Army has begun providing security at the helipad near the Burgenstock resort in Lucerne which is hosting the conference while security checkpoints have been set up around the area.
Switzerland has registered an increase in cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns in recent weeks, said Swiss President Viola Amherd at Monday’s press conference in Obburgen, Switzerland.
"We've faced challenges from more frequent cyber attacks. I can't share details, but the risks are high for large international conferences. We must be ready for all potential threats," she said.
As of Tuesday, Switzerland announced that nearly 90 countries have confirmed attendance at the conference. About half are from South Korea, South America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
China, Saudi Arabia, and Brazil will not attend or will send low-level diplomats. US President Joe Biden's absence also makes observers doubt that the conference will achieve a breakthrough.