In a significant development, Czech National Security Adviser Tomas Pojar revealed that the first shipments of artillery ammunition, facilitated by the Czech initiative, are expected to reach Ukraine no later than June. This announcement follows Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba’s statement to Ukrainska Pravda earlier in the day, affirming that the Ukrainian army, engaged in resisting the Russian military invasion for over two years, would imminently begin receiving ammunition procured through the Czech initiative.

Pojar clarified that while current supplies of large-caliber ammunition are sustained through previous orders, the commencement of deliveries under the “Czech ammunition initiative” is anticipated within the stipulated timeframe. He further indicated that deliveries contracted outside the initiative would persist for at least a year, ensuring continued support for Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

Prime Minister Petr Fiala expressed confidence in the timely implementation of deliveries under the Czech initiative, foreseeing fulfillment within a few months. However, due to security considerations, he refrained from providing detailed timelines following a government meeting. Kuleba intends to engage with Czech counterparts later in the week to delineate a comprehensive plan for ammunition deliveries, signaling an imminent escalation in support for Ukrainian forces.

Kuleba emphasized the significance of the Czech initiative while underscoring the imperative for additional supplies to meet Ukraine’s pressing defense needs. Despite the commendable efforts of the Czech initiative, Kuleba stressed the necessity for further similar assistance, reflecting Ukraine’s ongoing reliance on Western military aid amidst persistent challenges, including ammunition shortages highlighted by Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov earlier this year.

The Czech initiative, championed by President Petr Pavel and bolstered by the participation of 18 countries including Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, and Poland, demonstrates a collective commitment to bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities. With confirmed purchases of 300,000 pieces of ammunition and additional pledges, the initiative signifies a tangible expression of solidarity with Ukraine in its steadfast resistance against aggression, further consolidating international support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.

Article by Prague Forum