Europe must take greater responsibility for its defence, says Pavel ahead of NATO summit

Czech President Petr Pavel says Europe must assume greater responsibility for its own defence while maintaining strong transatlantic ties. In an interview with the Turkish daily Türkiye ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara on July 7–8, he said continued support for Ukraine remains strategically vital for European security. Pavel also called for concrete progress in defence spending, stronger defence industries, and improved capabilities in areas such as air and missile defence and military mobility. He described Turkey as an indispensable NATO ally and said he was looking forward to experiencing the country’s renowned hospitality during the summit.