Czech news in brief for May 12: Sunday's top headlines

The Roma and Sinti Holocaust Memorial in Lety opened its doors to the public for the first time today, marking a significant moment in the recognition of historical injustices. Situated on the grounds of a former concentration camp, the memorial stands as a somber reminder of the atrocities suffered by Roma and Sinti during World War II. With an initial trial run, the memorial aims to provide a space for reflection and education.

Despite several large events taking place in Prague on Saturday, including a football match between Sparta and Slavia, police managed to maintain public order without major disruptions. Minor incidents did occur, with clashes between fans prompting police intervention. Three Sparta supporters were arrested for disobeying police orders, while two Slavia fans were detained on suspicion of assaulting an official. Additionally, incidents related to alcohol and fake tickets were reported during hockey matches and a Rammstein concert, but overall, the police deemed Saturday's operations successful.

Traffic on the railway line to Germany was brought to a halt in Děčín due to a rogue tractor on the tracks. The tractor, which had been parked innocently in a garden, unexpectedly made its way onto the railway tracks, causing the disruption. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. Railway Administration spokesman Martin Kavka confirmed that normal traffic resumed around 1:38 p.m.

The 79th Prague Spring festival kicks off this evening with the Berlin Philharmonic performing Bedřich Smetana's Má vlast, conducted by Kirill Petrenko, at Prague's Municipal House. President Petr Pavel and his wife Eva are expected to attend. The sold-out show can also be enjoyed for free live at Prague's Kampa Park on a large screen. A vibrant lineup of concerts and interactive installations awaits festival-goers through June 3.

Analysts contacted by Czech News Agency anticipate a rise in inflation in April, likely increasing by up to half a percentage point from March's two percent. Fuel price hikes are cited as a primary driver behind the acceleration in price growth, alongside seasonal increases in clothing, footwear, catering, and accommodation sectors. Despite this uptick, analysts assert it does not signal a resurgence of inflation seen in previous years. The Czech Statistical Office will release official inflation data for April on Monday.

The Czech Republic secured their second victory at this year's Ice Hockey World Championships by defeating Norway 6-3 in Group A action in Prague. Captain Roman Červenka led the charge with two crucial goals, marking his 200th national team appearance. Despite a shaky start, the Czechs dominated with a commanding 49-11 shot advantage. Their next challenge awaits against Switzerland on Monday, as they aim to continue their winning streak in the tournament.

Brno saw a vibrant start to Majáles celebrations as thousands of students from local universities and secondary schools converged on Saturday morning. A procession including university and high school contingents boasted musical accompaniment from renowned bands like Chinaski, Ewa Farna, and Mirai. An afternoon music festival at the city's fairgrounds included lively performances across three stages, culminating in the crowning of the festival's king and queen. Organizer Michal Šamánek estimates tens of thousands of people were in attendance.

Czech President Petr Pavel warns of Russia's intentions to harm Europe beyond Ukraine's borders in an interview with Austrian paper De Presse. He emphasizes Europe's need to prepare for a prolonged confrontation with Russia, emphasizing the latter's quest to revive Soviet-era influence. Advocating for firmness when Russia undermines European interests, Pavel underscores Ukraine's significance for regional security. Additionally, Pavel urges Europe to take greater responsibility for its security amidst potential shifts in US leadership.

Seven people were injured in a collision involving two cars and a motorcycle in West Bohemia's Pilsen Region on Saturday. One injured person, possibly under the influence of drugs, assaulted a paramedic during the response, with police later finding bags of a crystalline substance on him. The incident occurred when the motorcycle driver failed to yield to an approaching car, leading to a head-on collision. The case involving the aggressive motorcyclist is under investigation by Pilsen police.

The 23rd Anifilm International Festival of Animated Films concluded in Liberec on Saturday as Chicken for Linda! clinched the main prize for full-length film. Directed by the Italian-French duo Chiara Malta and Sebastien Laudenbach, the film narrates the main character's journey to reconcile with her daughter through a promise of her favorite dish amid a city-wide strike. Winter, a Polish film, triumphed in the short film category. The festival showcased a diverse range of animated works, drawing around 36,000 attendees over six days.