The expansion of defense cooperation, the development of bilateral economic cooperation, and joint humanitarian projects were the key topics of the meeting between President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Prime Minister of the Czech Republic Petr Fiala in Prague.
The Head of State expressed gratitude for supporting Ukraine and for concrete joint work, especially in the area of defense cooperation. The President noted that the Czech artillery initiative is working very effectively and could yield even greater results this year. Ukraine also appreciates Czechia’s willingness to assist in the development of Ukrainian combat aviation.
"I am confident that we will continue to create jobs and ensure economic growth for both our countries through defense cooperation. And this is a significant contribution by the Czech Republic to the security of all of Europe – we have at least five years’ worth of joint initiatives to implement. Many different projects, many areas of development. Czech companies are aware of all the relevant opportunities," said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The President briefed on Ukraine’s actions on the battlefield. The discussion also touched upon diplomacy and Russia's rejection of proposals for a lasting ceasefire. In particular, they discussed the need for continued pressure on Russia, primarily through strengthened sanctions.
Among other important topics of the meeting were interaction at the level of European and Euro-Atlantic institutions, cooperation in the energy sector – including the development of nuclear generation – and joint infrastructure projects. The Head of State emphasized that it is fully possible to eliminate energy dependence on Russia, and Czechia has proven it.
"We also have joint potential in the healthcare sector. We are grateful for the Czech medical mission in Ukraine, and especially for the support provided to our Ukrainian veterans. We deeply appreciate Czechia’s help in restoring our medical facilities – in Dnipro, Lviv, Rivne, Kryvyi Rih, Kyiv, and Lutsk," the President noted.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy also acknowledged the efforts of Czech government officials in supporting the Ukrainian community in Czechia, their sincere assistance, and respect toward Ukrainians. In particular, a Unity Hub for Ukrainian citizens is being prepared for launch.
Petr Fiala reaffirmed continued support for Ukraine and emphasized the development of bilateral cooperation in economic, defense, and humanitarian fields. Czech companies are ready to take an active role in rebuilding Ukraine’s key infrastructure. Those who are already preparing for such projects today will have an advantage in the future.
The Prime Minister specifically highlighted military cooperation: training Ukrainian pilots on F-16s and Gripens, the artillery initiative, and mediation in supplying heavy equipment.
"We are actively participating in the Coalition of the Willing, which is ready to support Ukraine and will also assist in peacetime. This planning must begin now, and together with the Coalition of the Willing, we are convinced that the most important thing for Europe will be a strong Ukrainian army. Ukraine can always count on us," emphasized Petr Fiala.
