Czech initiative helps Ukraine stockpile over million artillery shells

The minister noted that thanks to the initiative, Ukraine received 1.5 million heavy-caliber munitions from 16 participating countries last year. By the end of this year, the total number of shells delivered is expected to reach 1.8 million.

“Thanks to our munitions supply initiative, we have been able to reduce the Russian artillery advantage on the battlefield fivefold and help maintain Ukrainian frontline positions,” Lipavský said.

Lipavský added that ending the initiative would be a gift to Putin.

The Czech foreign minister also called Russia the largest and most immediate threat.

He reminded that Ukraine had agreed to an unconditional ceasefire as early as March, but Russia continues to attack Ukrainian civilian and military infrastructure.

According to Lipavský, efforts by US President Donald Trump offer some hope for bringing the war to an end.

He emphasized that territorial issues must be resolved exclusively between Ukraine and Russia.

Shell supply initiative for Ukraine

In February 2024, Czech President Petr Pavel announced plans to gather 800,000 artillery shells from partner countries to support the Ukrainian armed forces.

Ukraine received the first shipment of shells in June 2024.

Recently, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha confirmed that the country plans to receive a total of 1.8 million artillery shells by the end of the year as part of the Czech-led initiative.

At the same time, former Czech Prime Minister and current opposition leader of the ANO 2011 movement, Andrej Babiš, has indicated he would abandon the shell supply initiative if he comes to power following the Czech parliamentary elections this fall.

For more on the potential risk to Ukraine’s support from the Czech Republic, read the article by RBC-Ukraine.