Berlin steps in with cash for Czech-led shell initiative for Ukraine
Boris Pistorius (Photo: Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has announced that his country will allocate €300 million to the Czech initiative for the supply of ammunition to Ukraine, according to Novinky.
Pistorius made the announcement after meeting with Czech Defense Minister Jaromír Zuna in Berlin.
"Germany plays an important role as a supplier of military equipment and ammunition and, together with our defense industry, makes a significant contribution to European security," Zuna said during his visit to Berlin.
According to Boris Pistorius himself, the €300 million will enable the purchase of around 50,000 artillery shells for Ukraine. He called the initiative an important tool of assistance and expressed gratitude to Czechia for continuing it.
Germany is the largest foreign donor to this initiative, and last year the country contributed €1 billion.
"Germany's step is great news. Prime Minister Andrej Babiš should review his position and also provide Ukraine with ammunition against Russia," emphasized Jan Lipavský, a member of parliament and former head of the Czech Foreign Ministry, in an interview with Novinky.
What is known about the Czech initiative
Czechia launched its ammunition project for Ukraine in 2024. The launch took place under former Prime Minister Petr Fiala, who presented the proposal at a meeting of European leaders in February 2024, and under Czech President Petr Pavel.
The initiative involves searching for available large-caliber ammunition on global markets, securing its purchase with funds from partner countries, and then transporting it to Ukraine.
However, the current coalition of ANO, SOCDEM, and the "Motorists for Themselves" party initially considered disbanding it. In the end, it was decided to retain the Czech administrative and organizational role, but the state no longer participates in the procurement itself.
What else is important to know
A few weeks ago, Czech President Petr Pavel stated that the number of countries funding the Czech initiative to purchase ammunition for Ukraine had halved.
He noted that only 9 countries are now participating in the program, down from 18. This happened after Andrej Babiš returned to the position of Prime Minister of Czechia.
