Fewer countries back Czech ammo initiative, raising supply concerns

The number of countries contributing to the Czech-led ammunition initiative for Ukraine has dropped by half, from 18 last year to nine currently, according to the Financial Times, citing Czech President Petr Pavel.

Pavel said the initiative remains operational, but the decline in contributors presents new challenges. As a result, ammunition deliveries this year could fall by as much as 50 percent compared with 2025, according to a statement from the Czech Defence Ministry reported by Reuters.

The ministry told Reuters that contracts have been secured for the delivery of around one million large-calibre rounds this year. The figure also includes smaller programs and direct purchases from Ukraine. The total could still increase if the initiative secures additional funding.

The ministry said the program has received roughly €1 billion (CZK 24 billion) this year. Since its launch in 2024, the initiative had secured €4.5 billion in funding by October last year.