Lipavsky reaffirmed the Czech Republic’s commitment to arming Ukraine, highlighting the success of last year’s ammunition initiative. “In 2024, we delivered 1.5 million rounds, including a third of 155mm shells. This helped balance the battlefield, shifting from a 1:10 disadvantage to parity. We must keep going in 2025,” he stated.
While he didn’t specify exact figures for future deliveries, he made it clear that political will and financing would determine the scale. “If the funds are there, we can procure the ammunition. Some may need adaptation, but the global supply exists,” he assured.
With Trump vowing to end the war quickly, Lipavsky warned against complacency. “We should do exactly the opposite [of stepping back]. Trump’s words—‘Peace through strength’—should be taken to heart. If Europe doesn’t secure its own future, others will decide it for us,” he cautioned.
He also rejected any peace deal that doesn’t include Russian reparations and recognition of Ukraine’s sovereignty. “This isn’t just about land—it’s about principles. War criminals must be held accountable, and Putin must pay for the destruction he caused. Zelensky must remain the president of a sovereign Ukraine,” Lipavsky insisted.
Russia, he warned, is maneuvering diplomatically to sideline Ukraine. “Putin and his team refuse direct talks with Ukraine, preferring to engage leaders like Scholz or the U.S. president. We can’t fall into that trap,” he said.
To counter Russian influence, Lipavsky proposed restricting the movement of Russian diplomats in the EU. “We’re pushing for the 16th sanctions package to limit their freedom of movement. At least 2,000 individuals—diplomats, families, and staff—operate as an intelligence network within Europe. This is unacceptable,” he stated. If approved, Russian diplomats would require visas to travel between EU nations, allowing intelligence services to track their movements.
Ahead of his February visit to the U.S., Lipavsky underscored the need for European unity, especially in trade relations. “We must prevent trade tariffs through dialogue and possibly an attractive offer. A trade war is out of the question,” he warned.
He also called for increased defense spending, arguing that Europe must prove its commitment to security. “If we want to be taken seriously by the U.S., we must show we take our own defense seriously. It may be unpopular at home, but it’s necessary,” he concluded.
