Defence minister discusses candidates for army chief with president

The minister of defence, Jaromír Zůna, spoke with President Petr Pavel on Wednesday evening about potential candidates to become the next head of the Czech Army, a spokesperson for the latter said. Mr. Zůna told Czech Television there was a shortlist of four for the post, but did not reveal any names.

The current chief of the General Staff, Lieutenant General Karel Řehka, was appointed in July 2022 for a four-year term.

Mr. Zůna and Mr. Pavel also discussed the former’s preparation of a long-term concept for the Czech Army, defence spending and other issues.