New Czech Prime Minister Babiš: Will Support for Ukraine Change.

According to ТСН: The President of the Czech Republic, Petr Pavel, has appointed the leader of the ANO movement, Andrej Babiš, as Prime Minister.

What is known about the new Prime Minister of the Czech Republic

Babiš returns to this position after nearly four years. He will form a new government together with the ANO, SPD, and 'Motorists' parties, which is expected to be completed in about a week.

The Czech Republic plans to reassess its position on support for Ukraine. The new prime minister may refuse military assistance to Kyiv.

Pavel emphasized that Babiš's appointment reflects the will of the voters and highlighted the need to address conflicts of interest related to Babiš's business.

The President also pointed out that the Czech Republic is facing complex security and economic challenges, so the new prime minister will have to tackle unpopular issues while maintaining stable relations with the EU and NATO.

Babiš promised that within a month he would resolve his situation regarding the conflict of interest due to his ownership of the Agrofert holding. He also thanked the president for the appointment and stated:

“I promise all citizens that I will fight for their interests not only at home but also around the world. I will do my utmost to fulfill the government's program statement and to make the Czech Republic the best place to live on the planet.”

Andrej Babiš, celebrating his 71st birthday in early September, becomes the oldest prime minister in the history of the Czech Republic.

He is the owner of Agrofert, the largest agribusiness, food, and chemical conglomerate in the country, and belongs to the most affluent and influential entrepreneurs in the Czech Republic.

Although Babiš has good relations with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, his statements regarding Ukraine and the war with Russia are currently cautious. In particular, he said:

“Ukraine is not ready for the EU (accession - ed.), as the war must first be ended.”

In addition, in November, the new speaker of the Chamber of Deputies of the Czech Republic, leader of the 'Freedom and Direct Democracy' (SPD) party, Tomio Okamura, demonstrated his election by removing the Ukrainian flag from the parliament building.

Andrej Babiš's appointment as Prime Minister has provoked mixed reactions, especially regarding his relations with Ukraine. The complexity of the economic and security situation may influence the new government's decisions, particularly regarding international support. We will monitor the developments, as the issue of Ukraine remains relevant for the Czech Republic and its foreign policy.