Czech Government Not Pursuing Higher Defence Spending Targets, Says Prime Minister

Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis stated the government is not on track to meet NATO's defence spending targets, describing the goal of raising spending to 3.5% of GDP as unrealistic. The 2026 budget proposes cutting defence spending to 2.1% of GDP, down from the previous plan of 2.35%. While the prior administration aimed to increase spending to 3% by 2030 and supported Ukraine, the current government prioritizes citizens' health and has ceased direct budget funding for ammunition aid to Ukraine, though the initiative continues with external donations.