Czech President on the Temporary Occupation of Parts of Ukraine: What It Means for Kyiv

Czech President Petr Pavel expressed the opinion that a possible temporary Russian occupation of parts of Ukrainian territories could be the price for maintaining Ukraine's sovereignty. He warned that the current level of Western support is insufficient for the rapid liberation of the occupied regions without significant human losses. The main priority is the survival of Ukraine as an independent state. Petr Pavel emphasized that the West will never recognize these territories as Russian and urged for increased economic pressure on Russia from the U.S. and Europe. He believes that this pressure can be very effective and lead to getting the Kremlin to the negotiating table. It was highlighted that attempts to pressure Ukraine into regaining control over the entire territory would be unjust and destructive for the country. It is important for Ukraine to maintain its national identity, and the joint efforts of Western countries in supporting Ukraine can be crucial in the rapid restoration of peace and stability in the region.