Return To Normal Relations With Russia Impossible While War In Ukraine Continues — Czech Foreign Minister

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has shattered European security and violated the principles of international law, making a return to normal relations with Russia impossible as long as the aggressive war persists, Czech Foreign Minister Petr Macinka declared at a gathering of the heads of the republic's foreign diplomatic missions. Macinka stressed that as long as the aggression continues, there is no justification to abandon economic pressure tools on Russia, and assured that the Czech Republic, alongside its allies, will persist in employing pressure measures on Russia whenever they prove effective.

The minister emphasized that Russia's war in Ukraine constitutes a fundamental threat to European security, and the Czech Republic is firmly committed to preventing military aggression from becoming a successful instrument of international politics. Macinka cautioned against competing in displays of aggression and instead advocated for responsible policy focused on creating conditions for secure and sustainable peace while safeguarding the Czech Republic's security interests.

He urged that while the war in Ukraine is a tragic reality, it should not be the sole lens through which one views global security threats. Macinka highlighted other pressing concerns such as uncontrolled mass migration, energy reliance, and technological disparities. The Czech diplomat outlined three core principles guiding the government's foreign policy: realism, reciprocity, and diversification.

He also referenced a meeting of Ukrainian ambassadors in Kyiv where the tasks of the foreign policy service abroad were delineated.