One day after the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, the discussion addressed Ukraine’s most pressing challenges and opportunities in the years ahead.
The debate organized by the Strategeo Institute and the Anglo-American University in Prague took place at AAU’s campus, bringing together leading experts, diplomats, and students for a thought-provoking exchange on three critical topics:
- Strategic Shifts in the US international policy and their impact: The Ukrainian and the European reactions
- Security Architecture: NATO, EU Integration, and Security guarantees
- Economic Recovery and Western Investment: Building a Resilient Post-War Economy
The Debate was moderated by Jan Macháček, with a distinguished panel of speakers who explored not only Ukraine’s future but also the broader implications for Europe’s security, economy, and identity.
Several powerful messages emerged throughout the discussion.
Jiří Schwarz, President of Anglo-American Universityand Director of CETA – Center for Economic and Market Analyses,made a striking statement while wearing a traditional Ukrainian embroidered shirt (vyshyvanka):
“Ukraine doesn’t owe anything to anybody!”
Daryna Semergei, a Ukrainian student and panelist, expressed deep gratitude for the continuous support from ordinary people over the past three years—both materially and emotionally. She emphasized the critical importance of mental support in particular.
Tomáš Kopečný, Czech Governmental Envoy for the Reconstruction of Ukraine, offered a stark assessment of transatlantic relations:
“The U.S. is done with Europe! Let’s face it.”
He elaborated: “The only deterrence is a well-trained Ukrainian military, equipped by Ukrainian and European defense industries, along with American defense products paid for by Europeans and Ukrainians. The U.S. is done with Europe. It’s hard to accept, especially for those who have dedicated their lives to integrating into NATO, believing it would guarantee lasting peace. But the U.S. doesn’t care.”
Kopečný also highlighted the immense support Ukraine has received from Czech citizens: “We’re talking about high hundreds of millions of euros donated by ordinary Czech citizens. That is something I believe is changing the identity of a nation in the long term.”
Petr Krogman, an entrepreneur in Ukraine’s agricultural sector and President of the Czech-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce, reminded the audience:
“Where the rule of law is functioning, you can’t have a deal with Putin!”
He further stressed: “The normal style of Russia is accusing you of what they are doing!” and added,
“We are simply buying security!”
The debate attracted a diverse audience of diplomats, experts, academics, media and students, including many Ukrainian students studying at AAU. Among the invited guests ( some of them attended) were ambassadors and diplomats from Finland, Estonia, Sweden, Denmark, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, Norway, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Austria, Bulgaria, Taiwan, Japan, and the Republic of Korea.
Closing Reflections
A lively Q&A session concluded the event. Milena Jabůrková, Vice President of the Confederation of Czech Industry for Digital Economy and Education, posed a crucial question to the panelists:
“What should we do for our survival as Europe?”
Among the many detailed responses, Tomáš Kopečný’s answer resonated strongly:
“Simply support Ukraine!”
This debate underscored the complexity of Ukraine’s path forward but also highlighted the unwavering commitment of its allies and supporters.
We extend our gratitude to all participants and attendees for their valuable contributions and engagement.
You can find full Audiovisual recording at: https://www.strategeo.cz/en/node/59
