Ahead of the crucial NATO summit in Vilnius, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is on a visit to the Czech Republic, expressed the need for honesty in the country's relationship with NATO. Zelensky, accompanied by Czech President Petr Pavel, said, we need honesty in our ties and underscored the importance of demonstrating the courage and strength of the alliance. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also said that Ukraine's counteroffensive is not progressing rapidly. However, he said, despite that, Ukrainian troops are making advancements and not retreating like the Russians.  

The Ukrainian president was warmly welcomed by Czech President Pavel at Prague Castle. Discussions between the two leaders included Czech support for Ukraine's counter-offensive and Kyiv's aspirations to join the transatlantic alliance.