Czech PM accuses election frontrunner of aiding Putin

Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala has criticized the leading candidate in upcoming elections, Andrej Babiš, for allegedly supporting Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Ukraine war. Fiala accused Babiš of opposing important initiatives that provide military support to Ukraine. Fiala's coalition government, which comprises four parties, has been a strong ally of Ukraine. He expressed concern that if Babiš, leader of the populist ANO party, wins the election, a Czech-led ammunition initiative might be jeopardized. This initiative aims to gather donations from allied nations to buy ammunition for Ukraine. Current polls indicate that Babiš leads with 33 percent support, while Fiala's coalition struggles at about 17 percent. Babiš has been promoting a peace-focused approach, echoing the ideas of leaders from Hungary and Slovakia. This stance suggests an emphasis on diplomacy rather than military aid. Despite these claims, Ukrainian officials are doubtful about Russia's willingness to negotiate peacefully. The Czech Republic will hold parliamentary elections by October 2025 to fill all 200 seats in the Chamber of Deputies. There are ongoing tensions within Fiala's coalition, highlighted by the recent exit of the Pirate Party from the Cabinet.