Prague – President Petr Pavel has emphasized the significance of the European Council’s consensus on financial aid for Ukraine. He believes it is necessary to share responsibility with fellow Europeans to secure the continent’s future. He expressed this sentiment today on the X platform.
The Czech Republic, Hungary, and Slovakia have opted out of providing guarantees linked to the EU’s €90 billion (approximately 2.2 trillion CZK) loan for Ukraine. Consequently, 24 EU nations will back the loan. Discussions will also persist regarding utilizing the reparations loan for Ukraine, which is backed by frozen Russian assets, in line with the conclusions from the recent Brussels meeting, supported by 25 countries, excluding Hungary and Slovakia.
Pavel regards the agreement on financial assistance as vital due to the significant strain Russia’s aggressive war is placing on Ukraine. He considers this aid essential not only for the country’s survival but also as a strategic investment in the security of Europe and the Czech Republic. “I believe it is imperative for us, alongside other Europeans, to demonstrate our willingness to take on our share of responsibility and safeguard our continent,” the president stated.
Prime Minister Andrej Babiš (ANO) faced criticism from his predecessor Petr Fiala (ODS) regarding his position on the guarantees. Fiala asserted that Babiš is aligning with Slovakia and Hungary at the EU level. He warned that this shift in foreign policy would cost Czechia its dignity, respect, and ultimately financial resources, as he noted on X. Outgoing ODS leader Fiala remarked that Babiš had pledged not to follow the directives of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, a promise he believes lasted only a week. “At the first European Council meeting, he fully aligned himself with them, as the negotiation outcomes illustrate. Czechia has sided with Slovakia and Hungary, declining to support guarantees for Ukraine, which continues to endure Russian aggression,” he pointed out. He believes this shift in policy indicates a loss of dignity, respect, and financial stability for the Czech Republic, adding, “Unfortunately, it is veering eastward.”
Analysts consulted by ČTK suggest that Babiš’s position signals a departure from the foreign policy approach of the previous administration. (19 December)
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