New Czech Defense Minister in Babiš’s Government: What Will Change for Ukraine?

Retired General Jaromír Zuna, nominated by the SPD party to the government of Andrej Babiš, has become the new Czech Defense Minister.

His position on the war in Ukraine ‘raises questions and concerns,’ Seznam Zpravy reports.

The 65-year-old Zuna has many years of military experience, and in 2019-2022 he was the first deputy chief of the General Staff. However, his candidacy has already caused controversy. Some in the military call him an ‘alibiist’ who avoids responsibility for his actions. At the same time, others see him as a thoughtful leader capable of effectively solving the army’s personnel problems.

His behavior at the briefing after the meeting with President Petro Pavel is particularly noteworthy. Zuna avoided direct answers about the war in Ukraine and quickly ended his communication with journalists, which was perceived as an unwillingness to clearly express his position.

This caution may indicate an unwillingness to conflict with key political players such as Babiş, Okamura, and President Pavel. They have different views on the Russian-Ukrainian war, making the future minister’s position even more uncertain.

In 2022, Zouna sought to become Chief of the General Staff and had the support of then-President Miloš Zeman, known for his pro-Russian statements.

The Czech Republic is one of Ukraine’s key partners in the supply of arms and ammunition, and any shifts in position could affect the pace of support.