Germany Ambassador Criticizes Swiss Arms Export Relaxation

Germany's ambassador to Switzerland, Markus Potzel, said on Jan. 27, 2026 that the Swiss parliament's recent decision to relax arms export law leaves planning uncertainty for Berlin because the Federal Council retains a veto. He warned Swiss firms are expanding production in Germany to bypass neutrality constraints; opponents have launched a referendum and the change would allow exports to 25 Western countries even if involved in conflict.