Czech news in brief for April 28: Monday's top headlines

Czech Minister for European Affairs Martin Dvořák called for more discussion on EU enlargement, saying it would strengthen the bloc’s security and competitiveness. At a Prague press conference, Dvořák and Slovenian Commissioner Marta Kosova emphasized the importance of expansion amid growing geopolitical challenges. Current candidates for membership include Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkans. Dvořák also addressed the future of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, following funding issues and legal disputes over U.S. support for the outlet.

Prague will host the 2026 Children and Youth Olympics, marking the first time the city will hold the event. The competition, scheduled for June 21-26, 2026, will feature nearly 4,500 athletes competing in 23 sports, including archery, fencing, and athletics. Participants, aged 10 to 16, will represent their regions in individual and team events. The games aim to inspire future athletes and strengthen regional pride. The logo, inspired by the Vltava River, emphasizes cooperation in sports.

A survey by research agency Ipsos shows that nearly 80 percent of Czechs believe the world now faces its greatest uncertainty since 1989. Concerns about economic instability and geopolitical tensions are driving pessimism, with only a third expecting future generations to live better lives. The survey also reveals generational divides, with older Czechs fearing migration and security risks, while younger people are more worried about freedom, democracy, and climate change. Most Czechs want greater political unity on security issues.

The Constitutional Court must review whether the stricter conditions for Russian applicants for Czech citizenship violate the constitutional order. A motion from 17 senators challenges the "lex Ukraine" law, which requires Russians to prove they have renounced their citizenship. The senators argue the law discriminates against Russians, particularly those fleeing repression or military service, and undermines Czech values. The court will decide if the measure unjustly impacts applicants critical of Russia's war.

A recent survey by corporate venture builder Creative Dock and startup  Elin.ai reveals that over 75 percent of Czech secondary school students use artificial intelligence in their education, with nearly half using it weekly. Despite this, 81 percent of students say their schools lack clear AI usage rules. Adam Hanka from Creative Dock warns that the education system has not adapted to AI's presence, creating a growing disconnect between students' use of AI and teachers' readiness to manage it effectively.

The Czech Ammunition Initiative delivered 400,000 large-caliber shells to Ukraine by April’s end, Czech Defense Minister Jana Černochová said Sunday. Last year, Czechia helped send about 1.5 million rounds. Funding is secured until autumn, with new support from Canada, Norway, Denmark, and the Netherlands. Černochová also welcomed more donor talks with Belgium. She emphasized deliveries would continue depending on global supplies and donor contributions.

The Culture Against Anti-Semitism march, organized by the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, ended with a rally Sunday in Wallenstein Garden. Several hundred pro-Israel supporters attended, along with a dozen pro-Palestinian activists highlighting child casualties in Gaza. Police kept the groups separated, and no incidents were reported. Organizers said it is crucial to speak out now, as many Jews fear expressing their identity amid rising tensions.

People across Czechia donated 518 tons of food and hygiene products during Saturday’s national food collection, organizers said Sunday. The total marks a 10% increase from last year. Donations, equal to about 928,000 meals, will aid seniors, families in crisis, homeless people, and people with disabilities. Over 2,500 shops and 5,000 volunteers participated. Online donations through select e-shops remain open until May 6, organizers said.

Nighttime temperatures across the Czech Republic fell to minus six degrees Celsius over the weekend, the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute reported. Frost hit both mountain areas and lowlands, with Bedřichov recording the coldest temperature. Meteorologists expect more frosts Monday night, warning of possible crop damage to early potatoes and sugar beets. Temperatures are forecast to gradually warm starting Tuesday.

Mercedes-Benz is showcasing its new CLA electric sports sedan at a special pavilion in Prague-Holešovice through this weekend. The CLA 250+ offers a range of up to 792 kilometers and can charge 325 kilometers in just 10 minutes. It features a 272-horsepower motor and a futuristic interior with three displays. Prices will be announced next week, with deliveries expected this summer.