In an effort to negotiate a path towards peace between Ukraine and Russia, more than 100 countries and organizations have gathered at a major conference in Switzerland. However, notably absent from the delegation is Moscow, raising questions about the potential for progress.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is using the meeting, held at a resort near Lucerne, to rally support for his 10-point peace plan, which he initially outlined in late 2022. Zelensky emphasized the significance of the summit, expressing optimism that history would be made during the proceedings.

Most Western nations have sent senior representatives to the conference. United States Vice President Kamala Harris, attending on behalf of the United States, announced a substantial aid package of over $1.5 billion to support Ukraine in rebuilding its infrastructure and addressing humanitarian needs arising from the conflict. Harris reaffirmed her country's commitment to standing with Ukraine and the international community in seeking a just and lasting peace.

Several European heads of state and government, including those from France, Germany, and the UK, as well as Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, are also participating in the summit. However, China declined to attend, insisting that any meeting should include the presence of both Russia and Ukraine.

Zelensky's peace plan includes demands for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the restoration of Ukraine's territorial integrity, the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian soil, and the reinstatement of Ukraine's pre-war borders with Russia. Additionally, the plan advocates for the establishment of a special tribunal to hold Russia accountable for war crimes.

Despite Zelensky's efforts, Russia has shown little interest in accepting the terms outlined in the plan, with no signs of compromise regarding the territorial issues. Russian President Vladimir Putin restated the Kremlin's own peace proposal on the eve of the summit, which entails Ukrainian troop withdrawal from certain regions and Ukraine abandoning its aspiration to join NATO.

In response to Putin's proposal, Zelensky denounced the territorial demands as reminiscent of Hitler's actions. He highlighted that the world is united in support of Ukraine and urged for an end to the conflict, emphasizing the urgency in addressing the escalating violence before further lives are lost.

As discussions commence at the historic summit, the absence of Russian representation raises doubts about the potential for meaningful progress. However, the collective determination of the attending nations and organizations signals a resolute commitment to achieving peace in the region. The outcome of the conference remains uncertain, with hopes that it will provide a platform for constructive dialogue and ultimately pave the way for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine-Russia conflict.