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Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský says he has “positive expectations” regarding the new U.S. administration.
He shared this in an interview with ČTK.
According to Lipavský, he holds positive expectations for the new leadership in the United States but cautioned that Europe must be prepared for discussions on defense spending, trade relations, and the stance on Russia concerning Ukraine.
He specifically emphasized that the Czech Republic fulfilled its commitment to spend 2% of its GDP on defense in 2024.
“I believe we can truly be proud that the Czech Republic, after many years, has surpassed this symbolic threshold, and we have nothing to be ashamed of. This gives us considerable prestige on the international stage,” he added.
Commenting on Trump’s threats to impose new tariffs on imports from the European Union, the Czech foreign minister called for a proactive EU approach.
“We must come up with arguments and ideas ourselves, showing that a tariff war is not particularly beneficial. I’m more concerned that the United States might take radical steps against China, which could have secondary effects impacting Europe,” Lipavský warned.
He also announced a working trip to the United States from February 5 to 8, aimed at establishing relations with the new administration.
Amid U.S. President Donald Trump’s pressure for a ceasefire in Ukraine, Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský recently stated that Europeans must set their own conditions for potential negotiations.
He also urged Europe to take a firm stance with Trump to persuade him to support Ukraine.
Read also: Ukraine needs more weapons, air defense systems – PM Shmyhal on Russia’s morning attacks
