AFU to receive first batch of ammunition under Czech initiative by end of month - Czech MoD

This was stated by the Minister of Defence of the Czech Republic, Jana Černohová, on the air of CNN Prima NEWS, Ukrinform reports.

"I can say that the first batch will be delivered or is being delivered to be there (in Ukraine) by the end of June, as we promised," the official said.

At the same time, when asked whether the Ukrainian Armed Forces had already received the ammunition purchased under the Czech initiative, Černohová said she could not disclose such information in accordance with agreements with partners. She also explained the lack of transparency in communication about the procurement by saying that Russia could try to buy the ammunition from countries "that do not want to take sides" to prevent Ukraine's allies from buying it. In addition, she said, we should not forget about the threat of attacks on ammunition depots that Russia could launch to disrupt supplies.

Černohová said that so far, agreements and memoranda of understanding have been signed with 18 countries, including a document with her colleague from Iceland just last week. So far, the money has been transferred to the accounts of "four or five countries," she added.

The head of the Ministry of Defence also admitted that some of the ammunition may not be of very high quality, but before being sent to Ukraine, it will be inspected by Czech experts and repaired if necessary.

"We are continuing the project and have more to offer our partners," she stressed.

Černohová said that last week she visited arms companies in the Pardubice region that produce weapons for the Czech army and for many countries around the world. She plans to discuss the results of the visit with her Ukrainian counterpart Rustem Umerov in the coming weeks.

"Our assistance to Ukraine will not end," Černohová assured.

As reported, earlier this year, the Czech government and president announced that they had found 800,000 rounds of ammunition for Ukraine that could be purchased with EU funds. Later, larger amounts were mentioned. The Czech Republic is an intermediary in this initiative.

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