Prague will continue supplying Ukraine with large-caliber artillery ammunition under its internationally backed procurement initiative, according to Czech Foreign Minister Petr Macek during his visit to Kyiv on 9 January. This was Macek’s first official trip to Ukraine, and the train carrying him was delayed by the massive Russian drone and missile attack overnight.
Czech Ammunition Initiative to continue despite political tensions
Speaking at a joint press conference with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, Macek confirmed that the Czech-led ammunition supply program will not be halted, according to RBC-Ukraine and Suspilne. He said a political compromise had been reached to ensure the initiative's continuation.
“I became an ambassador of good deeds — the continuation of the shell initiative, which is extremely important for Ukraine. I am glad we were able to find a compromise and consensus that will secure the continuation of the ammunition initiative,” Macek said.
He added that his talks with Sybiha also included discussions on providing the necessary military gear to Ukraine and encouraging Czech businesses to participate in the supply effort. At the same time, Czechia is interested in cooperation on strengthening anti-drone systems based on Ukraine’s unique battlefield experience.
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Czech role in diplomatic and military support
Macek also commented on Ukraine’s peace efforts, revealing that he had been briefed on the ongoing negotiations between Ukraine and the US. He did not offer a detailed assessment but said,
“I understood whether we should see this optimistically or pessimistically, so my approach will be more realistic. I see that Ukraine has a great interest in peace, and I see that it is ready,” the minister said, also noting that Ukraine has already made serious concessions for peace and the next step must come from Russia.
The Czech Foreign Minister said his visit to Kyiv holds both symbolic and practical meaning, according to Suspilne. He described the trip as a signal of the new Czech government’s readiness to quickly establish close contact with the Ukrainian side. Macek stressed that Prague is well aware of the current frontline situation and also highlighted that Ukrainians now form the largest national minority in the Czech Republic.
The Czech Ammunition Initiative
As of Febriary 2025, Prague had supplied at least 1.6 million shells. In 2025, the Czech Republic delivered 1.8 million rounds to the Ukrainian military — surpassing the initial target of 1.5 million. All deliveries consisted of large-caliber ammunition, including shells for artillery and mortar rounds.
New Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš had repeatedly opposed extending the initiative. However, Czech President Petr Pavel warned that terminating it would carry serious consequences — both for Ukraine and for the Czech Republic. Following that, Babiš acknowledged that the program would continue, but only on the condition that its funding came entirely from other countries, signaling that Czechia would no longer contribute financially. As a result, the initiative will continue without changes in its practical implementation for Ukraine.
