Pavel: Europe must be ready to act if U.S. steps back from security role

President Petr Pavel said the changing global security order is challenging long-held assumptions and requires Europe to be ready to act, even without the U.S. Speaking at a Prague Castle conference, he stressed continued support for Ukraine to prevent Russian victory. Pavel urged unity across political lines, investment in defence, and stronger ties with allies, including Indo-Pacific nations. He praised Czechs for supporting Ukraine but warned that complacency and surrender must not replace the will to defend democracy and freedom. “We must be ready to face threats—even if it means making sacrifices,” he said.