Czech Republic’s New Coalition Government Unveils Post-Election Priorities

Significant changes are on the horizon for the Czech Republic as the new coalition government establishes its post-election priorities. The recent elections for the Chamber of Deputies, held in early October 2025, resulted in a majority led by former Prime Minister Andrej Babiš and his ANO movement.

Czech Coalition Government Formation

President Petr Pavel has appointed Babiš to form the new government. His coalition includes the far-right SPD (Freedom and Direct Democracy) and the Motorists for Themselves party. This coalition signals a departure from the previous administration’s policies, especially regarding support for Ukraine.

Shifts in Foreign Policy

• Andrej Babiš has openly questioned the Czech Republic’s ammunition initiative supporting Ukraine, which aimed to provide 1.8 million rounds of ammunition.
• The coalition has promised no additional financial support for Ukraine from the Czech arms budget.
• Tomio Okamura’s SPD, known for its stringent stance on Ukraine, has already prompted the removal of the Ukrainian flag from the parliament building.

The coalition’s focus is shifting chiefly toward domestic issues, particularly economic relief for Czechs facing high inflation and stagnant wages. The coalition program, released in early November, prioritizes populist measures and wage increases for public sector employees.

Domestic Priorities and Economic Focus

Under Babiš’s leadership, the coalition emphasizes economic stability over foreign policy. His approach reflects a desire to minimize foreign military expenditures and prioritize domestic economic concerns. The perception is that support for Ukraine will be relegated to NATO-level discussions rather than direct budgetary support.

Concerns Over Coalition Dynamics

The coalition comprises multiple parties with varying priorities, which may lead to internal friction. An example is the Motorists’ call for tax cuts and minimal state interference, contrasting Babiš’s expansive social program. Furthermore, while SPD is slated for three ministries, Babiš may appoint non-party experts, which could dilute their influence.

There are considerable concerns about the potential appointment of controversial figures within the new government. Filip Turek, a notable influencer with no diplomatic experience, might have been appointed to a crucial ministerial position, prompting apprehension among observers. However, media reports suggest a more seasoned diplomat, Karel Beran, could take the role instead.

Czech Republic’s Future Relations with Ukraine

The new coalition’s rhetoric indicates a likely reduction in support for Ukraine. Although Babiš isn’t essentially pro-Russian, his administration’s statements—emphasizing limited financial assistance for military support—raise alarms regarding the future of Czech involvement in Ukraine’s recovery.

• Coalition plans briefly mention intentions to support diplomatic efforts to end the war.
• There is no explicit mention of supporting Ukraine through financial or military aid.

While Czech involvement in international aid for Ukraine remains uncertain, Babiš may be compelled by pragmatism to advocate for Czech business interests in the region. His past engagement with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy underlies the importance of business relations in navigating future policies.

Concluding Remarks

The new coalition government’s policies suggest a pivot toward domestic priorities, with potential ramifications for international relations, particularly concerning Ukraine. While Babiš may seek to maintain connections with major players on the international stage, the overarching trend appears to lean towards minimizing active support for Ukraine and reorienting Czech foreign policy.