In a crucial bid to address the escalating conflict, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on President Biden to attend a peace summit scheduled to take place in Switzerland in mid-June. Expressing concern over Biden's potential absence, Zelensky emphasized that such a development would be highly applauded by Russian President Vladimir Putin, undermining Ukraine's efforts towards stability.

While reports indicate that Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris may not attend the summit, some form of US representation is anticipated. Nonetheless, the absence of President Biden would deal a significant blow to Ukraine, a nation currently grappling with Russian advances in recent weeks. Zelensky is desperate to showcase international support for Ukraine and believes a high-profile summit in Switzerland would aid in this endeavor.

The summit, meticulously planned months in advance, is set to be hosted at the luxurious five-star Bürgenstock hotel, overlooking the scenic Lake Lucerne. Zelensky's suggestion to former Swiss president Alain Berset led to Switzerland being considered as a neutral host for such a critical event. However, doubts surrounding US attendance, particularly the presence of President Biden, have raised concerns within Ukraine.

While Washington has expressed its support for the meeting, it has yet to confirm the participation of a high-level delegation. The Swiss government has extended invitations to more than 160 countries, with the summit's primary objective being the facilitation of discussions among world leaders on achieving a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, based on international law and the UN Charter.

Nevertheless, several obstacles pose challenges to the summit's success, most notably the absence of Russia, the nation responsible for initiating the conflict. Switzerland asserts that Russia was not invited, while the Kremlin states that it would not have attended anyway. Relations between Switzerland and Russia have soured, with the former imposing sanctions, freezing approximately $14 billion in Russian assets, and suspending direct flights to Russia.

Despite China's influence on Russian President Putin, it is not expected to send senior officials to the summit. Rumors circulate that Brazil and India, countries Switzerland hoped to include in the negotiations, will only send junior officials. The Swiss government reports around 70 countries have confirmed their participation, and President Zelensky claims the number now stands closer to 90 after his efforts to garner support during his European tour.

Among the participating nations are European leaders such as President Emmanuel Macron of France and Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz, alongside various African and Middle Eastern states. President Zelensky has outlined his priorities for the summit, including the exchange of political prisoners, the safety of nuclear plants, and the return of abducted children, but it remains uncertain if the complete withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory will be addressed—a crucial demand for any peace agreement from Kyiv.

The Swiss government affirms that this summit marks the beginning of a process and is also considering a second conference involving Russia. However, skeptics in the Swiss media suggest that the most likely outcome of the summit, where world leaders can indulge in Switzerland's breathtaking scenery while enjoying the amenities of an exquisite hotel complete with spa, tennis courts, and an alpine golf course, is a boost in tourism.

Despite potential criticisms, Swiss President Viola Amherd stresses that inaction would be irresponsible for Europe's stability and Switzerland's own interests. While the summit's success and immediate impact on a peace deal remain uncertain, all eyes are on whether President Biden will heed President Zelensky's plea and attend the significant gathering in Switzerland.