Story perspectives

Czech Defense Budget Falls Short of NATO Target Amid Security Concerns

3/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Czech lawmakers approved a 2026 defense budget of 155 billion koruna, equal to 1.7% of GDP and below NATO's 2% target.
Andrej Babiš, Czech Prime Minister, cited public health as a priority and said the budget reflects financial constraints.
Petr Pavel, the Czech Republic's President, urged higher defense spending because of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
U.S. Ambassador Nicholas Merrick warned the budget could leave Czechia among NATO's lowest spenders.

1 of 1

Story summary

Czech lawmakers approved a 2026 defense budget of 155 billion koruna, equal to 1.7% of GDP and below NATO's 2% target.
Andrej Babiš, Czech Prime Minister, cited public health as a priority and said the budget reflects financial constraints.
Petr Pavel, the Czech Republic's President, urged higher defense spending because of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
U.S. Ambassador Nicholas Merrick warned the budget could leave Czechia among NATO's lowest spenders.