Czech President Petr Pavel criticized over defence spending and NATO summit role

President Petr Pavel is the target of intense criticism from Czech politicians and commentators, who accuse him of undermining democratic norms, disparaging the government and even threatening the country's sovereignty. Various parties, including members of ANO, SPD and the Freedom party, have labelled him a traitor and claimed his statements divide society.

A poll of nearly 4,000 respondents shows a majority skeptical of Pavel’s push for increased defence spending and his insistence on representing the Czech Republic at a NATO summit despite the foreign minister’s opposition. Critics argue his stance creates a constitutional clash over foreign‑policy authority and risks diverting public funds toward armaments.