Czech billionaire Andrej Babiš is predicted to win the country’s parliamentary election, which could shift its stance on Ukraine and potentially alter the European Union’s position on Russia. The pro-Russian populist leader has a history of controversy, including a lawsuit over his alleged collaboration with communist-era secret police and scandals involving offshore accounts.
Babiš, who was defeated in 2021, is now facing criticism for his policies during the current government led by Prime Minister Petr Fiala. Babiš’s coalition claims to prioritize “freedom” and “security,” but critics argue that he will reverse pension reform and cut support for Ukraine if elected.
The Czech Republic’s close ties with Europe are under threat, as Babiš has vowed to abandon a program that acquired artillery shells for Ukraine and is open to forming coalitions with far-right groups. These groups have expressed pro-Russian views and reject EU policies on climate change and migration. The opposition party, which includes Babiš, claims to prioritize national sovereignty and criticize EU policies.
Babiš’s rise to power has been compared to that of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who has also shifted the European Union’s stance on Russia. Babiš’s victory could have significant implications for Ukraine and the EU, as he is predicted to win with around 30% of the vote.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/populist-billionaire-favorite-czech-election-shift-stance-ukraine-126104886