Even in 2026, the Czech Republic will not reach its long-term commitment to spend at least two percent of its gross domestic product on defence, according to an assessment by the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation.The information was published by Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, who said that defence spending is expected to amount to only 1.78 percent of GDP this year.

The Prime Minister announced this fact via a video on social media and reminded that the Czech Republic had not met the alliance target in previous years. In 2025, NATO recognized spending at 1.85 percent of GDP, while in 2024 it was 1.97 percent. Even then, it failed to reach the required threshold.

Babiš also indicated that the government would still be negotiating with NATO about counting certain expenses. He specifically mentioned the CZK 52 billion SAFE programme, which he said should be included in defence spending. „We'll negotiate that, of course,“ said the Prime Minister, adding that the Czech Republic wants to convince the Alliance of a broader view of security investments.

The opposition reacted to the Prime Minister's words. ODS Chairman Martin Kupka criticized the government's approach and stressed that the cabinet should actively address the situation, not just comment on it. He said it was crucial not to cut defence spending and to clearly prioritise the state budget.

The debate on defence financing has long been a sensitive topic in the Czech Republic. The commitment of two percent of GDP is one of the key objectives of NATO member states, especially in the context of the deteriorating security situation in Europe. A number of allies have increased their budgets significantly in recent years, while the Czech Republic has repeatedly approached the target but has not been able to exceed it steadily.

The current situation thus reopens the question of whether the Czech defence policy is ambitious enough and whether the government will be able to ensure the necessary financing of the army in the long term. The outcome of the negotiations with NATO on the recognition of certain expenditures may be crucial, but without systemic changes, the fulfilment of the Alliance's commitment remains uncertain.

gnews.cz - GH