The article says that Slovak citizens have raised over €2.6 million ($2.8 million) in just five days to support the Czech-led initiative to provide Ukraine with much-needed ammunition. This effort began after the Slovak government refused to participate in the project, which aims to supply Ukraine with 500,000 155 mm shells and 300,000 122 mm shells sourced from outside Europe. According to what is written in the article, Ukraine is facing a severe ammunition shortage, with Russian forces firing at a ratio of around 10:1 compared to Ukraine, as stated by President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The article says that nearly 40,000 Slovaks contributed to the campaign, with an average donation of 64 euros ($68). One of the key figures behind the initiative is Otto Simko, a 99-year-old Holocaust survivor and journalist, who expressed his support for the Czech government's efforts to help Ukraine defend itself. According to what is written in the article, the campaign was also a response to Slovakia's recent political shift, with many citizens opposing the government's pro-Russian stance under Prime Minister Robert Fico.
"Many people in Slovakia are ashamed of the government's orientation to Russia. This is the reason people are contributing," said Zuzana Izsakova, one of the organizers of the Slovak crowdfunding campaign.
Meanwhile, Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanar reiterated that the country would not send arms to Ukraine, arguing that the conflict does not have a military solution. According to what is written in the article, this position is similar to that of Hungary, the only EU country maintaining close ties with the Kremlin since the start of the full-scale war. Despite this, the Czech initiative has gained international support, with several countries, including Belgium, Germany, Canada, and France, contributing funds. The first shipments of ammunition are expected to reach Ukraine in the coming months.
