'Ukraine can rely on the Czech Republic': Pavel meets with Zelenskyy in Kyiv

Czech President Petr Pavel traveled to Ukraine this weekend, meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv to reaffirm Czechia’s continued support more than three years into Russia’s full-scale invasion of the country.

The visit included a symbolic presentation of the Black Hawk military helicopter funded by Czech and Slovak citizens, along with discussions on future cooperation in defense, reconstruction, and security.

"I have come to Ukraine to emphasize that, even at a time of dynamic change, Czech support remains, will continue, and that we intend to contribute to the country's post-war reconstruction," Pavel wrote on X after meeting with Zelenskyy.

"I assured President Zelenskyy that Ukraine can rely on the Czech Republic. Together, therefore, we signed a declaration on strategic partnership in Kyiv today, in which the Czech Republic committed itself to further deepening cooperation or to supporting Ukraine's path towards the European Union. We are with you."

During his meeting with Zelenskyy, Pavel stressed that any ceasefire must lead to a sustainable peace and be acceptable to Ukraine.

"This is our collective responsibility," Pavel added, emphasizing the need for guarantees to prevent future Russian aggression. He added that the Czech Republic is ready to join international efforts, including discussions on a possible peacekeeping mission led by Britain and France.

Pavel also presented Zelenskyy with a Black Hawk military helicopter, donated through a Czech-Slovak public fundraiser. The initiative, known as Gift for Putin, raised over CZK 72 million from more than 20,000 donors, marking the first time a country’s citizens directly funded a military helicopter for Ukraine.

Zelenskyy thanked Czechia for its ongoing support and announced an agreement to open a unity center in Prague to coordinate aid for Ukrainians. He also expressed confidence that Czechia would play a key role in Ukraine’s future security framework, especially as the country continues to push for NATO and European Union membership.

Pavel’s visit also focused on cooperation in defense and Ukraine’s long-term reconstruction. He met with Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and visited Ukrainian companies assembling Czech BREN 2 rifles and manufacturing anti-tank and anti-ship missiles. Pavel noted that much of this production is now decentralized to protect against air strikes.

Pavel observed that Ukraine’s leadership displayed far greater calm and determination compared to his last visit two years ago. He attributed this to growing international support and Ukraine’s acceptance of the difficult road ahead, including potential compromises in peace negotiations.

"They have found within themselves a tremendous determination to defend what they hold dear: independence, freedom, and their homeland," Pavel said.

Pavel reiterated Czechia’s commitment to increasing military production, supporting humanitarian efforts, and contributing to Ukraine’s eventual reconstruction. He also pointed out Ukraine’s rapid innovation in weapons technology, which could benefit Europe in the future.

The visit also included tributes to fallen fighters in the Kyiv region and a tour of the Okhmatdyt hospital, previously targeted by Russian attacks.