Biden will not attend Peace Summit in Switzerland – White House

US Vice President Kamala Harris and US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan will represent the US at the Global Peace Summit in Switzerland on 15-16 June.

Reportedly, during her visit to Switzerland Harris will stress the commitment of the US President's Administration to "supporting Ukraine’s effort to secure a just and lasting peace, based on Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and the principles of the UN Charter".

"The Vice President will reaffirm support for the people of Ukraine as they defend themselves against ongoing Russian aggression. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan will join the Vice President in representing the United States at the Summit," the White House added.

Ukraine was hoping until the last moment that the summit would be attended by US President Joe Biden, who will be busy with pre-election events in California at the time.

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Kremlin ruler Vladimir Putin would be relieved by Biden’s absence at the summit.

In total, 107 countries and organisations have confirmed their participation in the summit.