Higher VAT for Missiles & Iran Summit
You must prepare for higher prices when shopping, as the Federal Council intends to raise VAT to finance new missiles. At the same time, Switzerland will become the venue for important diplomatic talks regarding the Iran conflict at the end of June, while a heatwave grips Western Europe.
The planned tax increase is necessary because the delivery of the US Patriot air defense system (a system for defending against aircraft and missiles) has been delayed, and Switzerland is currently considered insufficiently protected. To ensure the security of its airspace, the Federal Council is now negotiating with manufacturers from France, Israel, and South Korea regarding the purchase of alternative missile systems.
At the Bürgenstock Resort near Lucerne, over 2,000 bookings were canceled at short notice to make room for negotiations between the USA and Iran. The technical talks are scheduled to take place at the end of June, after military attacks in the Middle East exacerbated the situation. While the US Congress attempts to restrict Iran policy, Switzerland is once again assuming its role as a neutral mediator.
Travelers to Western Europe must expect extreme heat, as a so-called "heat dome" has formed, particularly over France. This is causing record-high temperatures that are expected to persist for some time. Additionally, European states have pledged further support to Ukraine ahead of the NATO summit, while experts say the military situation on the Crimean Peninsula is becoming more difficult for Russia.
In the app, you will find more information on these topics as well as reports on a severe earthquake in Venezuela and new assessments regarding Brexit.