EU sanctions Swiss colonel over pro-Russian media ties as chicken demand soars in Switzerland
The European Union has imposed sanctions on Jacques Baud, a former Swiss colonel and frequent commentator on Russian media. His assets are now frozen, and he is banned from entering or travelling through the EU. Meanwhile, Switzerland’s meat industry reports shifting consumer habits, with chicken consumption rising despite stagnant demand for meat substitutes.
Jacques Baud, a retired Swiss military officer, was added to the EU’s sanctions list earlier this year. The decision stems from his repeated appearances on pro-Russian TV and radio programmes, as outlined in the EU’s official regulation. In response, Baud plans to challenge the sanctions by filing a complaint with the European Court of Justice. The EU has also frozen his assets, preventing any EU-based individuals or companies from providing him with financial support.
Baud has previously written books analysing Russia’s war in Ukraine and its political leadership. His blacklisting follows a pattern of EU measures targeting individuals deemed to support or promote Russian narratives. In a separate development, Marco Tschanz, CEO of Swiss meat processor Bell, has declared the decline of meat substitutes. Sales of these products have slowed to just 0% to 1% annual growth, a sharp contrast to earlier expectations. Tschanz attributes the stagnation to poor taste and excessive processing, which have deterred consumers. Despite growing awareness of animal welfare and a preference for Swiss-sourced meat, overall consumption has not fallen. Instead, chicken consumption in Switzerland surged by roughly 8% last year. The shift suggests changing preferences rather than a reduction in meat intake.
Baud’s legal challenge against the EU sanctions will determine whether his restrictions remain in place. His case adds to the broader debate over media influence and political alignment. For Switzerland’s meat industry, the focus remains on adapting to consumer demands, with chicken gaining popularity while plant-based alternatives struggle to expand.
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