In Brussels, the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) discussed further support to Ukraine, both through the supplies of necessary military materiel and in the form of increasing the capacity of the Ukrainian defence industry. The Czech Republic was represented by Defence Minister Jana Černochová. The meeting was attended by newly sworn U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth as well as Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov.
Minister Černochová appealed to the NATO Allies for considering additional funding for the procurement of artillery ammunition for Ukraine, particularly in the context of the need to step up Europe’s role in the support of Ukraine. She noted that the Czech Republic facilitated the supplies of 1.5 million rounds of large calibre ammunition for Ukraine in 2024 alone, including outside the so-called ammunition initiative.
Besides continuing the supplies of military materiel, it is equally critical to strengthen the capacities of the Ukrainian defence industry for Ukraine to be able to resupply its fighting forces to maximum extent. “Major Czech defence industries have already transferred their production to Ukraine, and the Czech Republic is a trend-setter in this respect. The industrial cooperation involves joint production of the calibre 155 mm ammunition, assembly of assault rifles and the production of small-calibre ammunition,” Minister Černochová expanded.
United States Secretary of Defence Hegseth confirmed that the United States “is not going anywhere” and would continue to engage in European security. The U.S. commitment to NATO’s collective defence holds as well as its commitment to supporting Ukraine to be in a strong position before the negotiations with Russia would begin. Secretary Hegseth nevertheless emphasised that the United States now expect the Europeans to take on the primary share of responsibility both for its defence and for the support of Ukraine.
“I understand this clear messaging from the new U.S. Administration. European Allies and partners around the table have noted it and expressed their readiness to double down on their support to Ukraine in 2025, which is going to be the decisive year for the development of the war and for the future of the country,” Minister Černochová reacted.
The UDCG formed in 2022 in reaction to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and unites over 50 countries including NATO nations and EU Member States. Its regular meetings facilitate a smooth flow and effectiveness of the provided assistance.