According to the political scientist, the Czech Republic supported Ukraine more visibly than Slovakia, and Poland also overtook it
Unlike other European countries, the Slovak Republic was reluctant to support Ukraine, but the Czech Republic was more visible and relatively quick in its support. There is also a clear position of the new Czech government, which clearly defines itself not only towards Russia but also towards China. Political scientist Michal Lebduška from the Czech Association for International Affairs told SITA.
Slovakia hesitated slightly
The political scientist reminds that the Czech Republic joined the group of countries that decided to supply military material to Ukraine from the very beginning. “Poland, for example, is usually overtaken in Ukrainian affairs. This reaction was also possible thanks to the well-known agreement of the Czech public, ”Explained Lebduška.
Slovakia and its top politicians, with the support of Ukraine, were slightly hesitant about how to help their eastern neighbor and materially still negotiate.
There are no strong back pressures in the Czech Republic
Lebduška adds that Prague’s strong support for Kiev has also helped the fact that there are no strong counter-pressures on the Czech political scene compared to the past. “Even President Milos Zeman is not able to actively act as a pro-Russian actor, ”Explains the political scientist.
The political scientist will also point out that he will also contribute to the chaos regarding a possible Russian offensive in Ukraine in the media. According to Lebduška, attracting media attention can also be the goal of Moscow, which will find out the reactions of Western countries and can thus negotiate possible concessions.