Prague. Statement by President at ammunition summit
President: The greatest responsibility for supplying ammunition and armaments to Ukraine lies with the West. This is in our common interest.
Ladies and Gentelmen!
We meet at a crucial moment. The situation on the frontline of Russian–Ukrainian war is difficult. Russia has a strategic initiative and is preparing for another major offensive. What is more, Russians still possess significant capacity to replenish their military potential, not only in terms of manpower, but also heavy armaments and artillery ammunition. Russia has already introduced war economy.
On the other hand, Ukraine is struggling with a shortage of ammunition and a limited ability to replicate its own capabilities. In this context, the greatest responsibility for supplying ammunition and armaments to Ukraine lies with the West. This is in our common interest. We have to do everything to help Ukraine stop Russian agression. A potential failure of Ukraine will generate strategic threats to the whole Euro–Atlantic security architecture.
We welcomed the declaration by the Czech authorities of their readiness to acquire and transfer to Ukraine some 800,000 artillery munitions. At present, this is one of the most important proposals for strengthening Ukrainian capabilities in the relatively short term.
The Czech initiative enjoys full political and financial support from the Polish side.
Observing the situation on the Russian–Ukrainian front, we see the great role played by artillery and massed artillery strikes. Artillery fire is the most effective way to break the fortified defensive lines as well as to put maximum possible cost on the aggressor. We hope that the rapid delivery of artillery ammunition to Ukraine will help to change the negative trend at the Russian–Ukrainian front.
We are aware that obtaining ammunition is the one thing, and transferring it is another. So in light of this, I would like to emphasize the role of Poland, and logistical hub in Rzeszów–Jasionka airport in particular, in this project. During today’s meeting, I will confirm Poland's full readiness to mobilize all the necessary instruments required for the effective transport of ammunition to Ukraine.
Thank You.
