Czech PM heads to US, will meet President Biden amid global tensions

Czech Prime Minister has embarked a crucial visit to the United States that will focus on security cooperation, the Middle East, and ongoing support for Ukraine, he told reporters before leaving Prague on Sunday afternoon. Fiala will meet with President Joe Biden at the White House on Monday, addressing significant international challenges.

The visit marks the 25th anniversary of the Czech Republic's admission into NATO, and will be highlighted discussions on enhancing Czech-American partnership. Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following Iran's recent air attack on Israel, Fiala emphasizes the importance of de-escalation and Israel's right to self-defense.

"It is important that the situation does not escalate further in order to find a solution," Fiala told reporters. "That solution must be based on distinguishing who are the perpetrators and who are the victims of the escalation, and that Israel has the absolute right to defend itself and use all means to do so in order to guarantee its survival." 

The prime minister expressed concerns over the situation's potential impact on his visit's agenda, with the Middle East crisis likely dominating discussions. Fiala again spoke of the necessity of continued US support for Ukraine, essential for countering Russian aggression.

Washington remains a key military aid donor to Kyiv, with ongoing assistance crucial for Ukraine's defense against Russian forces. Fiala aims to secure additional backing from American counterparts to bolster Ukraine's capabilities.

Economic cooperation and energy security are also on the agenda, with discussions expected to encompass American liquefied natural gas supplies to Europe and nuclear energy development.

Fiala will also engage with US congressional leaders during his visit, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, and meet with Czech expatriates and business representatives. He will deliver a speech at the Hudson Institute in Washington, D.C., and honor the legacies of former Czech presidents Václav Havel and Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk.

The trip reaffirms the enduring alliance between the Czech Republic and the United States, emphasizing shared interests in global security and prosperity. Fiala's discussions with President Biden are pivotal in shaping future collaboration on critical international issues.