Switzerland cancels Russia's participation in air show

Switzerland has decided to refuse from Russian pilots’ participation in its air show in Payerne, DW reports.

"It corresponds to the position as regards military contacts with Russia,” the Swiss Defence Department announced. “It is necessary to preserve contacts even during a crisis. However, military contacts are special and it is necessary to refrain from them now,” the message said.

The decision was approved by the Swiss Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Russian aviation group Russkiye Vityazi was supposed to take part in the show. The pilots were going to demonstrate aerial stunts in SU-27 fighters.

This year’s air show will be dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the Swiss Air Forces.