According to Politico, the Czech Republic could become a 'villain' within NATO due to proposals to cut defense spending below the alliance's recommended threshold of 2% of GDP. The proposed state budget from Prime Minister Babiš's government suggests approximately €900 million in cuts to the defense sector compared to the previous budget proposal from the Fiala government. This situation raises concerns among NATO allies about the Czech Republic's commitment to collective defense efforts.

Foreign Minister Petr Macinka defended the cuts as necessary measures to address what he termed 'frauds' in the previous budget proposal. He emphasized during his visit to Washington that difficult choices had to be made, including cuts not just in defense but also in health and social services to maintain fiscal sustainability. Despite the cuts, he reassured allies that the Czech Republic remains committed to NATO and intends to return to the 2% spending goal.

The budgeting decisions of the current Czech government have prompted criticism from allies, with a NATO diplomat anonymously quoted by Politico expressing concern that remaining around 2% without plans for an increase, or even reducing contributions, would not strengthen NATO. The implications of these budget talks raise significant questions about the solidarity and preparedness of NATO as a collective defense force, especially in light of ongoing global security challenges that the alliance faces.