The Czech government is preparing to end its military support for Ukraine.

Tomio Okamura, chairman of the SPD party and speaker of parliament, announced after a nearly three-hour meeting that the Ministry of Defense has been instructed to prepare documentation to terminate the Czech Republic’s participation in the ammunition supply program for Ukraine.

Okamura emphasized that the Czech state budget will no longer finance Ukraine’s military efforts. The prepared documents are scheduled for discussion first at a coalition council meeting and then at the cabinet level.

The SPD leader also reported that Defense Minister Jaromír Zuna, representing SPD in the government, declined an invitation to visit Ukraine, reversing his earlier announcement to journalists regarding such a trip.

Budget allocations for purchasing ammunition and weapons for Ukraine will cease, Okamura confirmed. He stressed that any remaining support should aim to expedite the conflict’s resolution and contribute to a peaceful settlement, which, in his view, should proceed through negotiations with Russia based on a plan associated with former US President Donald Trump.

The Czech government has not yet reached a decision regarding the acquisition of American F-35 fighter jets. Okamura reiterated SPD’s stance that the purchase is unsuitable and prohibitively expensive. He stated the Ministry of Defense would review all potential options, including canceling the contract if necessary.

Internal criticism also emerged. SPD MP Jindřich Raichl suggested replacing Zuna, claiming that SPD voters do not support aid to Ukraine. Okamura downplayed this, stating the faction had not formally addressed the matter and Raichl’s proposal should not be taken seriously.

SPD Deputy Chairman Radim Fiala clarified that, under the coalition agreement between ANO, SPD, and the Motorists’ Party, Zuna will now only comment on military matters and logistics, while Prime Minister Andrej Babiš will represent the government on international issues, including Ukraine.

The opposition criticized these moves. ODS Deputy Chairman Martin Kupka described the coalition decision as a “muzzle” on the Defense Minister, arguing it contradicts the Babiš government’s prior commitment to free speech. Former Pirate Party leader Ivan Bartoš called the conclusion “absurd and unprecedented.”

Prime Minister Babiš later stated that Zuna remains free to speak on any topic but recommended he concentrate on defense procurement and expanding the Czech armed forces.

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