Switzerland has officially joined the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), aimed at establishing a unified air and missile defense system across Europe.

Axar.az reports that , citing US News, the initiative was launched by Germany in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, allowing European nations to collaboratively purchase defense systems and conduct joint training.

Armaments chief Urs Loher signed the accession declaration on Thursday, making Switzerland the 15th member of the initiative.

The move has stirred controversy in Switzerland, with critics claiming it contradicts the country's longstanding tradition of neutrality. However, the government asserted on Friday that participation in the initiative is compatible with Switzerland’s neutral stance, as it imposes no obligations and allows the country to determine its level of involvement.