Czech Defense Minister Yana Chernokhova said that her government is ready to consider sending its military to Ukraine in connection with the threat of a new Russian attack. But first, the Ukrainian authorities must send a request, she said this in an interview with Nezávislý Deník.
Černochová confirmed the Czech Republic is willing to send or sell military material to Kyiv. According to the minister, the supply of arms or ammunition to Ukraine should be coordinated with other countries, including Visegrad countries, Germany, Austria, or the Baltic states.
“The Czech Republic is historically, politically and in terms of alliances on Ukraine’s side. If Ukraine needs help, we will do our best to help,” the minister said.
It was also reported that the Czech defense minister is currently negotiating with the Czech Army Chief Aleš Opata about the possible needs of Ukraine. Moreover, the Ukrainian Armed Forces head, General Valery Zaluzhnyj, is expected to come to Prague soon.
At the same time, the Czech army will send six members of its special forces to Ukraine for a joint exercise ‘Silver Sabre 2022’ in late February or early March. The exercise takes place under NATO’s plan to develop the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
“The involvement of the Czech Special Forces in the Silver Sabre 2022 exercise has been in preparation for some time, so it is not an immediate response to the current escalated situation,” the defense ministry spokesperson told.
"Ukraine is our partner. NATO partner and partner of the Czech Republic. We have a common history, both countries were under Soviet rule. Ukraine deserves to decide its own fate... If the Czech Republic is requested to move troops to Ukraine, we are ready to consider it. We have the will to help Ukraine," the Czech Defense Minister added.