Ukraine war: Czechs donate £1.1m to buy Soviet-era tank to help fight against Russia invasion

The T-72 Avenger has been modernised to improve its protective systems and to add modern night-vision and communications equipment. A crowdfunding campaign in the Czech Republic has raised more than 33 million crowns (£1.1m) to buy a modernised Soviet-era T-72 tank that will be sent to the Ukrainian army to help it fight Russia's invasion. Run by the Ukrainian embassy in Prague, more than 11,200 people donated money. Ukrainian deputy foreign minister Yevhen Perebyinis said on Twitter: "The Czech Republic became the first country where ordinary people bought a tank." The T-72 Avenger has been modernised to improve its protective systems and to add modern night-vision and communications equipment. Ukraine latest news: Putin admits 'mistakes' Fundraising is continuing to provide ammunition, the campaign said on its website. The Czech Republic, a NATO and European Union member, has been a strong backer of Ukraine. Police turn 200mph Ferrari seized from criminals into patrol car One person