The return of Andrej Babis as prime minister of the Czech Republic suggests reduced support for Ukraine and closer alignment with figures associated with Trump.
The populist billionaire Andrej Babis, 71, has returned to power as prime minister of the Czech Republic, after winning the October elections and forming an alliance with two euro-critical parties.
His appointment, confirmed by President Petr Pavel, signals a significant political shift that may affect relations with the European Union and military support for Ukraine.
Babis, leader of the liberal ANO party, stated during the televised ceremony at Prague Castle that he would defend “the interests of all citizens, both at home and abroad.”
President Pavel requested that he complete the process of separating himself from his Agrofert conglomerate within 30 days through an independent blind trust, following models previously used by several former British prime ministers to avoid conflicts of interest.
The head of state stressed the importance of maintaining “constructive ties” with the European Union and NATO amid economic strains and security challenges. The new cabinet is expected to be appointed next week, replacing the outgoing center-right coalition led by Petr Fiala over the past four years.
Babis announced he will seek a confidence vote in the Lower House on January 13. With 108 out of 200 seats secured, his majority is expected to approve a program that includes a major revision of the European Green Deal, objections to EU migration policy, and a political realignment with Hungary’s Viktor Orbán and Slovakia’s Robert Fico.
His platform calls for rolling back environmental measures, strengthening sovereignty-focused policies, and tightening border controls. Coalition partners Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD) and Motoristé sobě (United Motorists) back this agenda.
Meanwhile, Babis faces an investigation over alleged misuse of EU funds that could advance if parliament lifts his immunity. His coalition is expected to support him throughout the legislative process, although the case remains active in the judicial system.
A major shift is anticipated in Czech policy toward Ukraine. Babis confirmed that his government will scale back military support for Kyiv, aligning with the positions of Slovakia and Hungary, and moving closer to leaders associated with former U.S. president Donald Trump.
His stance includes calling for an immediate ceasefire, without guarantees regarding Ukraine’s territorial integrity, drawing criticism from pro-European sectors.
The return of Babis consolidates a political reorientation with potential regional repercussions, affecting the balance of power within the European Union at a time of heightened tensions in Central Europe.
