Czech Leader Warns of EU Decline Amid Policy Disputes
Babis returned to the premiership in December after his ANO movement secured a decisive victory in parliamentary elections, winning 34.5% of the vote and obtaining 80 seats in the 200-member lower chamber. Since taking office, he has consistently promoted stronger national decision-making powers, advocated a review of EU strategies, and called for what he describes as a more practical response to Europe’s economic and security concerns.
In remarks published Sunday, the Czech leader criticized the EU’s approach to climate policy, claiming that current measures are damaging economic growth and industrial performance across the continent.
“The EU is now probably on the same road as the end of the Roman empire,” he said.
The bloc’s efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels have become a growing source of disagreement among member states. Critics in several European countries contend that environmental regulations, emissions-related costs, and ambitious climate objectives are contributing to higher energy prices and reducing the competitiveness of key industries. These concerns have intensified as governments also grapple with increasing defense expenditures and the economic consequences of the conflict in Ukraine.
Babis also acknowledged that the Czech Republic is unlikely to achieve NATO’s benchmark of allocating 2% of gross domestic product to defense spending this year, despite asserting that the target was reached in 2025. He attributed part of the challenge to budgetary pressures inherited from the previous administration led by Petr Fiala, which maintained a strongly pro-EU stance.
The debate over defense funding is closely linked to broader discussions within Europe regarding reliance on the United States for security. According to reports, Washington currently accounts for roughly 60% of NATO’s overall military spending. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly indicated that America could reduce its defense commitments in Europe if allied nations fail to significantly increase their own military budgets.
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