Czech President approves 60 citizens to join Ukrainian armed forces amid Russian criticism

The Czech president, Petr Pavel, has so far granted permission to 60 Czech citizens to join the armed forces of Ukraine, his spokesperson told Czech Radio.

In total, Mr. Pavel, a former senior soldier who has been in the post for just over a year, received 181 requests from Czechs seeking to help Ukraine repel its Russian invaders.

The decision has drawn criticism from the Russian Foreign Ministr. Its spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, condemned the Czech president’s move, accusing him of disregarding the safety of Czech nationals.

Under Czech law, citizens who wish to fight for the army of another state must first seek the president's permission. Those who join without this exemption risk facing criminal prosecution upon their return.