Ukrainians in Czechia demand confiscation of Russian assets

The Ukrainian community in the Czech Republic on April 15 staged a protest outside the Russian Center for Science and Culture, also known as the “Russian House,” in Prague. 

Activists called for the confiscation of assets belonging to the aggressor state, as reported by participant Sviatoslav Kalishchuk.

“This place has nothing to do with culture. Under the guise of ‘Russian culture,’ it has for decades served as a legal base for Kremlin agents. It’s not artists who represent their culture here, but influence agents spreading disinformation and promoting Moscow’s agenda in Europe,” Kalishchuk said.

Kalishchuk said that Russian assets should be redirected to serve European security. 

“These assets should be used to purchase weapons to defend those living daily under the threat of Russian missiles,” he said. “We demand the confiscation of the aggressor state’s assets — not as a symbolic gesture, but as a real means of supporting Ukraine.” 

The protest was also joined by Oleh Symoroz, a veteran of the Russo-Ukrainian war and public activist.

“Only together can we confront systemic evil. And only together can we win,” Kalishchuk said.

The Ukrainian initiative in the Czech Republic, led by Bohdan Rajčinec, President of the European Congress of Ukrainians, expressed their support for the action.

“It was an important event. Thank you,” they said.