Czech Deputy Speaker Cites Ukraine's Role in Regional Security
Barbora Urbanová argues that a stable, integrated Ukraine is essential for Central European security, despite domestic political divisions.
Key points
- Czech deputy speaker Barbora Urbanová describes a stable Ukraine as the best security guarantee for Central Europe.
- Urbanová states that Ukraine has the best army in Europe due to its real combat experience and contribution to defense.
- The politician visited Kyiv in September 2026 despite the Czech Chamber of Deputies not approving the official trip.
Barbora Urbanová, the deputy speaker of the Czech Chamber of Deputies, has stated that a stable and integrated Ukraine serves as a fundamental guarantee for the security of Central Europe. In a recent interview with Ukrinform, the politician emphasized that Ukraine’s military capabilities and democratic trajectory are vital components of the region's defensive architecture.
Urbanová, a member of the opposition Mayors and Independents party, highlighted that Ukraine currently possesses the most combat-experienced army in Europe. According to her assessment, this force contributes daily to European defense, reinforcing the idea that supporting Ukraine's integration is aligned with the long-term security interests of the Czech Republic and its neighbors.
Security interests versus domestic opinion
The deputy speaker acknowledged that public sentiment in the Czech Republic is not uniform, noting the influence of populist forces who often advocate for a reduction in support for Kyiv. She argued that it is crucial to openly explain why abandoning Ukraine's integration efforts would contradict national security goals, particularly as the opposition party represents a specific segment of the electorate.
Urbanová stressed that the complexity of public opinion requires clear communication about the strategic benefits of a strong Ukraine. She believes that the current political landscape demands a transparent discussion on how Ukraine's stability directly impacts the safety of Central European nations.
Conditions for European union accession
Regarding Ukraine's path to joining the European Union, Urbanová expressed confidence that Kyiv will meet the necessary criteria when it is ready to do so. She noted that Ukrainian authorities are aware of the required reforms, particularly in the area of anti-corruption measures, and are actively working to address these challenges rather than ignoring them.
The politician emphasized that the process of accession should be driven by Ukraine's own decision-making and its fulfillment of specific conditions. She viewed the current progress in democratic and judicial reforms as a positive sign that Ukraine is moving in the right direction for eventual membership.
Diplomatic visits and political context
Urbanová recently traveled to Kyiv, where she met with members of the Verkhovna Rada and government officials. She also participated in the 22nd Yalta European Strategy conference, an event focused on European security and integration issues. This visit marked a significant diplomatic engagement for the Czech opposition.
According to reports from uatv.ua, the official trip was not approved by the organizational committee of the Chamber of Deputies, citing opposition from Speaker Tomio Okamura. Despite this institutional hurdle, Urbanová made the visit in September 2026 at the direct invitation of Olena Kondratiuk, the deputy speaker of the Ukrainian parliament.
