Czech President Petr Pavel has said that Ukraine has a good chance of success in its planned counteroffensive to regain territory, but warned of high casualties if Russia uses its defences well. He praised the Ukrainian soldiers for their motivation and preparation, and said that they had not succumbed to the weaknesses seen in the Russian Army.
Mr. Pavel also said that Ukraine would eventually get the Western fighter jets it has requested, but not in time for the upcoming offensive. He added that Ukraine needed support for NATO and European Union admission, but that becoming a member of either would be a lengthy process.