Czechia reaffirms commitment to Ukraine with security, defence initiatives

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Czech President Petr Pavel in Kyiv on March 21 to discuss the ongoing war with Russia and European efforts to secure security guarantees for Ukraine.

Pavel arrived in Kyiv earlier that day after visiting Odesa on March 20, where he met with Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister for Development of Communities and Territories, Oleksii Kuleba, along with other officials, Caliber.Az reports, citing Ukrainian media.

During Pavel’s visit to Odesa, Russia carried out a drone attack on the city, launching Shahed-type drones that left three people injured and caused damage to civilian infrastructure.

In their discussions, Zelenskyy and Pavel addressed the situation on the front lines, European initiatives to provide security guarantees for Ukraine, and defence industry cooperation between the two nations. The Ukrainian president also expressed gratitude for Czechia’s participation in the UK-led "coalition of the willing," which supports Ukraine in its fight against Russian invasion.

The two leaders also agreed to establish a Unity Center for Ukrainians in Prague, further strengthening ties between the two nations.

"Thank you for your visit and cooperation. Today, we signed a joint statement on strategic partnership between our countries. This reflects the real level of our relations. Thank you for this. Thank you for the Czech initiative and for all the help you have given to our people," Zelenskyy stated.

Czechia has been one of Ukraine’s strongest allies since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. In July 2024, the two countries signed a 10-year bilateral security agreement aimed at deepening military cooperation.

Under the agreement, Czechia and Ukraine will enhance collaboration in military technology, including ammunition production, small arms manufacturing, drone development, electronic warfare capabilities, and heavy equipment production.

Additionally, the two nations plan to establish joint defence enterprises and continue an annual training program for up to 4,000 Ukrainian military personnel.

By Tamilla Hasanova