Czech leaders congratulate Trump, some worry about impact on Ukraine support

Czech leaders extended congratulations to Donald Trump on his likely U.S. election victory, with most expressing optimism for continued strong U.S.-Czech and transatlantic relations. President Petr Pavel acknowledged Trump’s win and hopes for ongoing cooperation on global challenges but refrained from speculating on Trump’s future policies toward Ukraine, NATO, and Europe. Prime Minister Petr Fiala (Civic Democratic Party) emphasized the importance of maintaining high-level U.S.-Czech ties. Opposition leader Andrej Babiš (ANO Party) voiced hope that Trump’s victory could bring global peace, while Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský (non-partisan) expressed skepticism, anticipating Trump might pressure Europe to take more responsibility for its own defense. Political analysts note Trump’s unpredictability but expect no major shifts in Czech-U.S. relations.