Support Amid Political Uncertainty
Czech President Petr Pavel has emphasized the importance of maintaining the Czech-led initiative to provide ammunition for Ukraine, warning that abandoning it would be both dangerous and damaging to the country’s credibility.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, Pavel said the Czech Republic has a responsibility to stand by Ukraine as it defends itself against Russian aggression, media reported.
“If we want to respect that the world should function on the basis of certain rules, then we must support everyone who is a victim of violations of those rules,” the Czech president stressed.
Proven Effectiveness of Ammunition Supplies
Pavel highlighted that the initiative, which organizes and secures ammunition deliveries to Kyiv, has already proven its effectiveness by ensuring consistent quality and reliable supplies.
He warned that any attempt to limit or cancel this initiative would likely lead to significant misunderstanding, even among our allies, who trust the process; such actions could ultimately damage our credibility.
The initiative was launched earlier this year, pooling resources from multiple European states and partners to fill Ukraine’s urgent need for artillery shells.
Opposition Challenges Ahead of Elections
Pavel’s remarks come amid growing political uncertainty at home. Andrej Babiš, leader of the populist ANO party that currently tops opinion polls, has vowed to scrap the ammunition initiative if his party comes to power after the October parliamentary elections.
Earlier, Pavel himself admitted that he could not guarantee Prague’s continued military support for Ukraine after the elections, signaling the strong impact domestic politics could have on Czech foreign policy.
The outcome of the election will therefore play a decisive role not only in the Czech Republic’s stance toward Ukraine but also in broader European solidarity efforts.
