President Pavel thanks Czechs for backing Ukraine at Prague rally marking invasion anniversary

Events are taking place across Czechia this weekend to mark the upcoming fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

In Prague, several thousand people gathered in Old Town Square on Saturday afternoon for an event called Together for Ukraine. The gathering was organised by the groups Post Bellum, People in Need, Million Moments for Democracy, Díky, že můžem, and the European Congress of Ukrainians.

President Petr Pavel, who spoke at the event, thanked Czechs for their support for Ukraine in its fight against Russia. He said the nature of any future peace would shape Europe’s future for a long time and called on the Czech government to continue supporting Ukraine until peace is achieved. He also welcomed the continuation of the Czech-led ammunition initiative.

Ukrainian Ambassador to the Czech Republic Vasyl Zvarych also addressed the crowd. He said Ukraine is able to hold its defensive line partly thanks to the support of Czechs. Like the president, he spoke about the solidarity of individuals and the initiative through which Ukraine has been receiving artillery shells.

Earlier in the day, a march carrying a large Ukrainian flag went from the National Museum to Old Town Square, recalling the blue-and-yellow banner that previously hung on the museum building as a sign of solidarity.

Replicas of drones used by Russia in attacks on Ukraine are also being displayed in the squares of nearly twenty Czech towns, highlighting strikes that have also targeted civilians.