The Ukrainian conflict did not take center stage at Davos, despite efforts by Kyiv and its allies

During the World Economic Forum in Davos, President Zelensky addressed the audience, advocating for the Ukrainian peace plan and calling for increased sanctions against Russia. Unlike the previous year, Zelensky did not explicitly request additional military support for Ukraine’s offensives on the battlefield, as reported by The New York Times.

Switzerland agreed to support the so-called peace formula and responded positively to Zelensky’s call for a high-level peace conference later this year. Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis suggested inviting Russia to the meeting based on the “peace formula,” even if Moscow declines. The Ukrainian conflict remained a noticeable but not predominant theme in Davos this week, despite Kyiv and its allies organizing events to keep participants aware of the ongoing war. While the West continues to express support for Ukraine and concerns about its potential loss of external financial support, there are also calls, both public and private, for a diplomatic resolution to the conflict.

US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stated after meeting with Zelensky that “the people of Ukraine are prepared for the upcoming struggle and the United States and our partners will continue to support them.” However, concerns about the future of US military aid to Kyiv arise due to former President Donald Trump’s success in the preliminary Republican Party candidate election in Iowa. During a press conference in Davos, Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine would collaborate with the elected American president, whoever that may be. However, he acknowledged that “radical voices from the Republican Party” have created tension and “caused pain” for the Ukrainian people.