Putin's regime 'monstrous': Czech PM on second anniversary of Russian invasion

Marking the second anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine this morning, Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala condemned the regime of President Vladimir Putin as "monstrous," emphasizing the imperative of thwarting Russian aggression in Ukraine to ensure the future of all of Europe.

In a video posted to social media, Fiala underscored the unjustified nature of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which began two years ago. Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský and other Czech leaders echoed Fiala's sentiments, asserting the necessity of resisting Russian attempts to alter state borders.

"If Ukraine falls, it is only a matter of time before someone else is threatened," Fiala said. "There is no point in telling ourselves that Putin would find [the defeat of] Ukraine enough. We all want peace. That is why we must not be afraid to confront those who threaten peace."

Fiala decried Russia's assault on Ukraine as a blatant violation of the principles of state sovereignty and independence, warning against complacency in the face of Putin's ambitions and stressing the broader implications of Ukraine's fate.

"If anyone wants proof of how monstrous the Russian regime is and that it is not afraid of anything, just look at how Vladimir Putin is liquidating his political opponents," Fiala added, referencing the the recent demise of prominent Putin critic Alexei Navalny in a Russian prison colony.

Other prominent Czech leaders also marked the two-year anniversary of the Russian invasion through statements posted to social media.

"For two long years, Ukraine has been facing a neo-colonial war unleashed by Vladimir Putin. But the fact is that Russian aggression with the aim of breaking Ukraine has lasted even longer – 10 years," writes Foreign Minister Lipavský.

"For the Czech Republic, we will stand by Ukraine and provide it with all necessary assistance as long as it is needed. Ukraine has the right to self-defense and restoration of territorial integrity, including Crimea. We support it in becoming a member of the EU and NATO, which is essential for European security."

"Two years of Russian aggression showed not only Ukraine's enormous determination to defend itself, but also tested us," notes Interior Minister Vít Rakušan. "The immense wave of solidarity and the willingness of most of us to help [Ukraine] and its inhabitants in any way is clear proof that we have survived as a society."

"Ukraine is defending us too! And we must not abandon it!" says Agricultural Minister Marek Výborný.

In Prague today, events under the banner of United for Ukraine will mark the two-year anniversary of the Russian invasion. Czech President Petr Pavel will speak at a rally in support of Ukraine at Prague's Old Town Square from 4 p.m., and a concert at Forum Karlín will begin from 6:15 p.m.