Czech Ammo Initiative: A Crucial Support for Ukraine's Defence

The future of a crucial Czech initiative providing ammunition to Ukraine is under threat following the parliamentary victory of ANO, led by former Prime Minister Andrej Babis. Babis plans to end the program, questioning its transparency and cost, suggesting the European Union and NATO should manage it instead.

Czech President Petr Pavel emphasized the initiative's importance for both the Czech Republic and Ukraine. Pavel warned that terminating the support would negatively impact Ukraine and potentially lead to more casualties, while also damaging Czech interests.

Despite Babis's reservations, the outgoing government under Prime Minister Petr Fiala had increased shipment expectations significantly for the coming year. The ammunition drive is a key component of Ukraine's defense strategy, praised by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and facilitated by global defense partnerships.

(With inputs from agencies.)