European Council President Optimistic about Normalization of Armenian-Azerbaijani Relations
Czech President Calls for Increased Monitoring of Russians in the West Amid Ukraine Conflict
Czech President Petr Pavel has suggested that security services should intensify their monitoring of Russians living in Western countries due to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. In an interview with RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service, Pavel stated that this increased surveillance is a necessary measure in response to the Kremlin’s aggressive war against Ukraine. While acknowledging the hardships faced by Russians abroad as a result of Moscow’s decision to invade Ukraine in February 2022, Pavel argued that stricter security measures are warranted during times of war. He emphasized that all Russians living in Western nations should be subject to heightened monitoring due to their affiliation with a country engaged in an aggressive conflict. Pavel further drew a historical parallel, citing the strict monitoring regime imposed on Japanese descendants in the United States during World War II.
The Czech president, whose role is largely ceremonial, also expressed his expectation of hearing “strong language” regarding long-term support for Ukraine during an upcoming NATO summit to be held in Vilnius, Lithuania. Pavel highlighted the importance of Ukraine’s membership in the alliance and foresees a consensus among member countries on a comprehensive plan to support Ukraine in the long term. He stressed that this support should go beyond one-off contributions and instead prioritize carefully planned and sustained assistance. Pavel, who serves as the chairman of the NATO Military Committee, has visited Ukraine multiple times and witnessed the progress made by the Ukrainian military since the start of the conflict. He attested to the significant advancements and readiness of the Ukrainian forces, stating that if Ukraine were a NATO member today, it would boast the most experienced military in the alliance.
Regarding Ukraine’s aspirations for EU membership, Pavel affirmed his belief that Ukraine should become a future member. He proposed linking the country’s accession process to post-war reconstruction efforts. The Czech Republic has already initiated discussions on offering its expertise and resources for reconstruction, emphasizing the importance of starting these projects early. Pavel also addressed concerns about China’s potential role in the reconstruction of Ukraine. While acknowledging the likelihood of China’s increased involvement during this phase, he cautioned that China’s motivations are driven by its global ambitions rather than humanitarian reasons. Pavel expressed regret that China did not play a more active role in preventing the conflict from escalating and suggested that China’s actions are aimed at gaining influence and control on the global stage.
It remains to be seen how Pavel’s call for increased monitoring of Russians in the West will be implemented, as well as the extent to which NATO will manifest its support for Ukraine during the upcoming summit. However, Pavel’s remarks reflect the ongoing concern among Western countries about Russia’s aggression and the need to address the security implications associated with Russian nationals living abroad.
