Czech FM: Ukraine Is Now a Strategic Security Partner, Not Just an Aid Recipient
Ukraine is no longer merely a recipient of Western aid but a strategic partner in shaping European security, Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský stated on June 13 at the GLOBSEC 2025 forum in the Czech Republic, The Gaze reports, citing European Pravda.
“Over the past two years, Ukraine’s role has transformed from an object of support to an equal strategic partner,” Lipavský said.
He noted that the European Union’s mindset has shifted from “we must help Ukraine” to “Ukraine, help us,” reflecting a growing sense of mutual cooperation.
Highlighting Ukraine’s battlefield experience and technological innovation, Lipavský emphasized that collaboration is now in Europe’s own interest.
“Ukraine possesses cutting-edge technologies we may want access to as well. The only way to be part of this is to work in and with Ukraine,” he said.
Lipavský rejected outdated assumptions about Ukraine’s vulnerability, stressing: “This is not a country whose capital can be seized in three days — this is a strategic partner in building European security.”
He called for deepening integration and strategic partnership with Ukraine across multiple sectors, describing it as a “new reality” that has emerged only in the past year.
“This wasn’t the case three years ago — maybe not even two — but it is the trend today,” he added.
The Czech top diplomat also emphasized his country’s active role in launching joint projects with Ukraine, reaffirming Prague’s commitment to supporting Kyiv.
“You have our support, our determination. Together, we can defeat Russia and preserve borders where they rightly belong,” Lipavský concluded.
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