For the first time since the beginning of the war, Switzerland has deported Ukrainians

Switzerland has, for the first time since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, resumed deportations of Ukrainians who have committed crimes in the country.

This information reported by Neue Zürcher Zeitung (NZZ).

Three individuals were deported to Ukraine via a special flight from Zurich. The deportation was carried out through Poland, from where the offenders were to be transported to Ukraine by land. This marks the first deportation of Ukrainian nationals since Russia’s invasion began.

The individuals had been convicted of criminal offenses and are banned from re-entering Switzerland. However, specific details of the crimes were not disclosed. NZZ notes that minor offenses are not grounds for deportation, suggesting that the crimes could include robbery, illegal entry into a residence, or assault.

Switzerland continues to prohibit the re-export of its weapons to conflict zones, including Ukraine. Meanwhile, the Swiss Federal Council has decided to extend the special protection status “S” for Ukrainian refugees until at least March 2026.