Czech Republic, Netherlands To Ship More Military Aid To Ukraine

Ukrainian servicemen and first responders stand by a damaged vehicle in Kyiv on February 26.

The Czech Republic and the Netherlands announced on February 26 plans to supply more military aid to Ukraine, which is facing a massive, unprovoked attack from Russia.

The Czech Defense Ministry said it is immediately sending machine guns, submachine guns, assault rifles and pistols together with ammunition worth the equivalent of some $8.6 million.

The ministry said the Czechs will transport the weapons and deliver them to a place determined by the Ukrainian side.

The Czech Republic has already agreed to donate some 4,000 pieces of artillery shells worth the equivalent of $1.7 million to Ukraine.

Also on February 26, the Netherlands announced it will deliver 200 Stinger anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine.

The decision follows a request from Ukraine. Stinger missiles are surface-to-air weapons that can be used against planes and helicopters.

The Netherlands had already agreed last week to deliver weapons and military equipment to Ukraine, including 100 sniper rifles with 30,000 rounds of ammunition as well as radar devices and landmine detectors.

A part of this shipment was sent off on February 26, with the rest to follow as soon as possible, according to the government, citing "logistical" issues.