Czechia's new security strategy declares Russian imperialist ambitions a clear threat

Czech independence and sovereignty are threatened by Russian imperialist ambitions, which is evident in light of historical experience, Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský said in a speech today at the Vienna School of International Studies.

In his remarks, Lipavský presented the key messages of the security strategy recently approved by the Czech government. The document updates the country's 2015 strategy.

The new Czech strategy states that Russia views Central Europe as within its sphere of influence, and violates the stability of neighboring countries in the Western Balkans, Middle East and Africa. Russia deliberately undermines political, economic, and social stability in the Czech Republic and poses a security threat, according to the strategy.

The report also states that China is challenging the international order in ways that negatively impact Euro-Atlantic security.

The document aims to serve as a tool for strategic government communication to the entire Czech population, Lipavský said. It starts with the simple statement that the Czech Republic is not safe. He said every citizen can understand there are real concerns. However, the purpose is not to incite fear but to deliver a clear message, the minister noted.

In addition to traditional geopolitics, many global phenomena like cybersecurity, supply chain integrity, the overall economy, and energy security can impact security everywhere, Lipavský warned. This includes climate change.

He also discussed Ukraine's potential accession to the EU and NATO, describing it as a key security guarantee. Europe must keep supporting Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty, Lipavsky said. At the same time, Ukraine itself must agree to any peaceful solution, whatever form it takes, he added.

Failing to do so echoes the 1938 Munich Agreement, where Czechoslovakia had to cede borderlands to Nazi Germany – which did not prevent war, Lipavský said. He noted Ukraine would feel betrayed if dictated to cede Crimea or eastern regions to Russia in exchange for calm.

The primary aim of the Czech strategy was to involve society and businesses on the issue, with the Foreign Ministry coordinating development before government approval in June, Lipavský said. He praised Czech leadership's current unity on foreign policy matters.