Babiš's government faces criticism over defense spending…

Babiš's government faces criticism over defense spending, Čapí hnízdo case splits

14.03.2026 08:19 HotInfo

In March 2026, Prime Minister Andrej Babiš's government is facing growing international pressure over low defense spending. US Ambassador Matthew Whitaker sharply criticized the Czech Republic for failing to meet NATO commitments, which require spending of at least 2 percent of GDP. Babiš's government approved a budget that will reach just barely above 1.7 percent of GDP, which has triggered a wave of criticism both from abroad and from opposition politicians in the Czech Republic. The prime minister defends the budget, claiming there is no reason to panic, and promises possible intervention if the situation worsens. ihned.cz ↗ aktuality.sk ↗

In parallel, the Čapí hnízdo case has entered a new phase. On Thursday, March 12, the Prague Municipal Court severed into separate proceedings the part of the case concerning Prime Minister Babiš. Due to the Chamber of Deputies' decision not to hand Babiš over for criminal prosecution, he can now not be tried for subsidy fraud. Proceedings will continue only against MEP Jana Nagyová, who remains the sole defendant in this segment of the case. reflex.cz ↗ irozhlas.cz ↗

Domestic politics is raising further questions. The government has approved a new system for deciding on government flights for constitutional officials, with the key decision now falling to the prime minister. Babiš is also continuing preparations for a law on the registration of non-profit organizations funded from abroad, which critics compare to Russian legislation. Concerns are also emerging about Russian ties within his circle, including freedom-of-speech adviser Natália Vachatová. Meanwhile, the prime minister is discussing fuel and energy prices and negotiating with Prague City Hall on the construction of a new hospital in Letňany. lidovky.cz ↗ idnes.cz ↗