A key advisor to Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš is facing scrutiny over her past statements and family ties to Russia, raising questions about the country’s political landscape. The controversy underscores the ongoing debate surrounding perceptions of Russian influence in Central Europe.
Natálie Vachatová, appointed by Babiš as an advisor for freedom of speech, has drawn attention for her comments on Russia and its political climate. In a recent post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Vachatová discussed the Oscar-nominated documentary “Pan Nikdo proti Putinovi” (No One Against Putin), referring to it as “anti-Russian.” When challenged that she may have meant “anti-Putin,” she maintained her position, stating, “In Russia, the majority of people vote for Putin, regardless of whether it is propaganda or not.”
Vachatová’s remarks echo sentiments that have sparked debate about her views on Russia’s political system and the legitimacy of its elections. The Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with numerous other countries, has labeled the 2024 Russian presidential elections as “non-transparent and undemocratic,” noting widespread fraud and the obstruction of genuine opposition candidates. According to Freedom House, which monitors human rights and democratic freedoms globally, the elections were marred by significant irregularities.
The scrutiny surrounding Vachatová extends beyond her political commentary. Reports have surfaced regarding her brother, Fedor Vachata, who serves as the general director of M.B.A. Finance, a company operating in Russia. This connection has prompted concerns about potential security risks, with some analysts suggesting it raises questions about Vachatová’s judgment and impartiality.
Vachatová has dismissed the concerns about her brother’s business dealings as a non-issue, responding to criticism on X with a defiant message. She previously faced scrutiny for her involvement with the Facebook group “Friends of Russia in the Czech Republic” around the time of Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea, where she reportedly criticized Czech media for being “anti-Russian.”
In a 2014 post, Vachatová questioned why Czech Television chose to broadcast a speech by then-U.S. President Barack Obama instead of a press conference held by the Russian Ministry of Defense. She similarly reportedly expressed regret that Russian President Vladimir Putin “underestimated” the Maidan protests in Ukraine in 2014.
Vachatová’s past statements and associations are now under renewed examination as she continues to serve as an advisor to the Prime Minister.
