Prague, [Date] – President Petr Pavel has granted authorization to 14 Czech citizens to join the armed forces of Ukraine in response to Russian aggression. The decision was reported by the iRozhlas website. However, eight requests for permission were denied. The total number of Czechs permitted by the head of state to join the Ukrainian forces now stands at 146, with 132 of them receiving approval from the previous president, Miloš Zeman.

These Czech volunteers are joining the fight in Ukraine against the backdrop of Russian aggression, which began approximately a month after the conflict erupted on 24th February of the previous year.

Markéta Řeháková, the spokesperson for the president, confirmed the issuance of 14 positive decisions, allowing Czech citizens legal entry into Ukraine’s armed forces. However, specific reasons for rejecting the eight requests were not disclosed.

Czech citizens who wish to participate legally in the fighting on the side of Kiev must seek permission from the president to serve in foreign armed forces. Failing to obtain this exemption could lead to criminal prosecution. In cases where individuals have already gone to Ukraine without prior authorization, they have the option to retroactively apply for an abolition permit, which requires co-signature by the prime minister. So far, there have been no applications for an abolition permit.

The exact number of individuals who have received permission but haven’t traveled to Ukraine, as well as the number of those who went to the east without applying for an exemption, remains unclear.

The decision by President Petr Pavel to authorize Czech citizens to join the Ukrainian armed forces reflects the country’s stance against Russian aggression and solidarity with Ukraine. It also underscores the individual commitment of these volunteers to support Ukraine’s efforts to defend its territorial integrity. The situation remains closely monitored, and the government continues to evaluate requests for participation on a case-by-case basis. The potential implications of these decisions on international relations in the region are being carefully considered, especially in light of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Article by Prague Forum