The new government plans to seek a confidence vote in mid-January.

New Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš has sworn in a coalition government that includes his ANO movement, the far-right SPD, and the right-wing Motorists, winning 108 votes in the 200-seat parliament.

Babiš aims to defend Czech interests domestically and internationally, criticizing EU institutions and preferring direct dialogue with national leaders within the European Council, while rejecting referendums on EU and NATO membership.

The coalition signals closer ties with Hungary’s Viktor Orbán and Slovakia’s Robert Fico, aligning against certain EU sanctions on Russia and Ukraine aid.

Four deputy prime ministers were appointed: Karel Havlicek and Alena Schillerová (ANO), Petr Macinka (Motorists), and Jaromír Zauna (SPD).

Babiš previously opposed direct Ukrainian aid on the campaign trail, arguing EU funding should suffice, but in Brussels he said any Ukraine aid should accompany a clear peace plan.

The Motorists withdrew their environment minister nominee, Filip Turek, after resurfaced racist and homophobic posts, and he faces police investigations for alleged rape and domestic violence.

EU scrutiny of Viktor Orbán and Robert Fico over rule-of-law concerns and Moscow ties frames broader regional pressures around EU cohesion and Ukraine policy.

This shift aims to redefine Czech foreign and domestic policy in concert with Orbán and Fico, while questioning Ukraine aid and EU sanctions policy.

Babiš, a billionaire and former PM, will be scrutinized for conflicts of interest and potential EU rule-of-law tensions.

Babiš moved quickly to Brussels to engage with EU officials, signaling an active approach to EU relations.

Decision on the environment ministry hinges on the health of Filip Turek, with hopes he will be approved by the president.