Donald Trump shock pushes neutral Swiss to seek closer defence ties

Just two months ago, Switzerland’s new defence minister was seen as an outsider with little chance of securing a federal government post. But Martin Pfister, an army colonel and cantonal minister who advocates for more defence co-operation with NATO and European Union neighbours, is set to take office next month after defeating a more conservative rival earlier this week. Co-operation and joint training exercises with NATO, of which Switzerland is not a member, was “absolutely necessary”, Pfister said last month, adding that while he was not pushing for his country to become a member, the defence alliance remained essential for Europe’s security. His appointment highlights how even neutral Switzerland is feeling the urgency to bolster its defence, as US President Donald Trump threatens to unwind the American guarantees that have long underpinned the continent’s – and the Alpine nation’s – security. In a news conference after the vote on Thursday, Pfister said NATO was “changing, we ...