SPD proposes 7.5 billion CZK cut to Czech defense budget

The Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD) party has proposed cutting 7.5 billion CZK from the Czech Ministry of Defence's budget for the upcoming year. This reduction would target uninitiated investments, potentially lowering defense spending to 1.96% of the country's GDP.

SPD leader Tomio Okamura stated that the diverted funds should be used to reduce the national deficit and improve conditions for personnel, including higher wages, better food, and improved uniforms and equipment. He argued that delaying these unstarted armament investments would not compromise strategic military direction.

The proposal has drawn sharp criticism from political opponents. Former Defence Minister Jana Černochová described the move as a targeted destruction of the ministry, questioning the logic of halting projects only to justify subsequent cuts. Senator Pavel Fischer characterized the proposal as the liquidation of state defense. Critics also noted that the ministry has yet to present new acquisition projects in air defense, despite government commitments to strengthen such capabilities.