International

Peace Summit in Switzerland: Russia & China Out, Security Boosted

Moldova and 90 other countries are set to attend the upcoming peace summit in Switzerland. Russia declined the invitation, while China opted out of participating in the negotiations.

Moscow views the meeting as unproductive.

Swiss authorities are preparing for the summit and claim to have already detected a surge in cyberattacks and potential sabotage attempts targeting the conference.

Over 4,000 troops will be deployed to ensure security at the summit, which will be held this weekend at a resort in the Swiss Alps, near Lucerne. The cantonal police of Nidwalden are leading the security operation in collaboration with federal authorities and special services from Bern.

"The scale of this operation necessitates a broader approach than the cantonal police of Nidwalden can manage alone. Therefore, we have established a joint operation involving police forces from multiple cantons and regions. Due to security concerns, I cannot disclose the exact number of officers deployed from across Switzerland, but we have the unwavering support of the entire nation," stated Stephan Grieder, Head of Security Operations for the Cantonal Police.

Swiss Army Commander Daniel Keller acknowledged the pressure surrounding the event: "While I wouldn't say I'm nervous, there is certainly a sense of tension. Our military police are a highly trained and professional force, accustomed to operating with composure and strategic depth in challenging situations. We understand the critical role we play in ensuring a successful outcome, and I am confident in our ability to maintain control."

The Swiss Federal authorities confirmed a significant increase in cyberattacks. "Naturally, I cannot divulge specifics. However, the elevated risk associated with hosting a high-level international conference necessitates a comprehensive preparedness strategy," explained Swiss President Viola Amherd.

"Cyberattacks can also be employed to disrupt the smooth running of the conference. While I am not a cybersecurity expert, the recent surge in attacks suggests a deliberate attempt to undermine the success of the summit," remarked Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis.

Foreign Minister Cassis expressed his belief that Russia should eventually be included in the peace talks, despite European leaders' unsuccessful attempts to convince Chinese President Xi Jinping to participate in efforts to de-escalate tensions with Russia. China has declined the invitation to the Burgenstock conference.

Translation by Iurie Tataru

Read more

Presidential elections in Romania // Over 12,600 people voted at polling stations opened in the Republic of Moldova
Elections

Presidential elections in Romania // Over 12,600 people voted at polling stations opened in the Republic of Moldova

Over 79,600 Romanian citizens cast their right to vote, by this time, at polling stations opened for the first round of the presidential elections taking place over three days. At the 59 polling stations opened in the Republic of Moldova, 12,600 citizens voted today. Most Romanian citizens voted at polling stations opened in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland - over 11,500, Germany - 10,300 and in Italy about 10,000 people.

Famous artist in Romania, Gabriel Cotabiță, dies at 69
International
Video

Famous artist in Romania, Gabriel Cotabiță, dies at 69

Romanian artist Gabriel Cotabiță died at the age of 69. The tragic news was made by the singer's conductor Ionel Tudor on his Facebook page. According to the media from Romania, the artist was admitted to the University Hospital in Bucharest and was in a coma.

VOX// Moldovans with dual citizenship, at the polls: "We must make the right choice for a prosperous Romania"
Elections

VOX// Moldovans with dual citizenship, at the polls: "We must make the right choice for a prosperous Romania"

Moldovan citizens with Romanian citizenship cast their right to vote. On the second day after the opening of the 59 polling stations, Moldovans participate in large numbers, because every vote counts, they say. Moreover, Romanians from the Republic of Moldova want a developed Romania, which will be represented internationally by a person with integrity and with increased interest in the Republic of Moldova.