Babiš Returns: A New Era in Czech Politics

The Czech Republic's president, Petr Pavel, has asked former prime minister Andrej Babiš to form a new government after his party's electoral victory. Babiš is negotiating a coalition with two other parties, which are critical of the EU and Russia's invasion tactics, affecting foreign policy direction.

On Monday, the president of the Czech Republic, Petr Pavel, invited former prime minister Andrej Babiš to form a new government following his party's success in recent parliamentary elections.

Babiš, a populist billionaire, is engaging in coalition talks with two other parties known for their critical stance on the European Union and its policies, sparking speculation about the country's future foreign policy direction.

Having won 34.51% of the vote, Babiš's ANO party aims to establish a coalition government, securing 108 seats in the 200-seat lower house, thus moving the rivalry-led by outgoing Prime Minister Petr Fiala-to the opposition.

(With inputs from agencies.)