Czech news in brief for December 15: Monday's top afternoon headlines

Czechia has entered a flu epidemic, with respiratory infections rising nearly 20 percent in a week, according to the State Institute of Health. Chief hygienist Barbora Macková said influenza A is now dominant, with 1,486 cases per 100,000 people. The sharpest increase was among children aged six to 14. Health officials urged preventive measures, including masks in crowded indoor spaces and healthcare facilities. The chief hygienist called for compliance with measures that prevent the spread of respiratory infections, such as covering your mouth when coughing or wearing masks or respirators. 

Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš said his government would support negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine, calling for a ceasefire by Feb. 24, the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion. He said any deal must include security guarantees. Foreign Minister Petr Macinka said the conflict appears closer to an end than when the previous cabinet took office. Babiš also questioned further EU financing for Ukraine without new funding mechanisms.

After its first meeting, Prime Minister Andrej Babiš said the new ANO-SPD-Motorists cabinet would begin work immediately, citing four years of preparation in opposition. He pledged transparency and weekly Monday meetings. The government plans to prioritize a new construction law, reject the ETS 2 emissions trading system and oppose the EU migration pact. Babiš said results would be judged in the 2029 parliamentary elections.

Several hundred protesters, mainly students, gathered at Prague’s Hradčanské Square to oppose the Motorists’ involvement in leading the Environment Ministry. The demonstration, organized by Fridays for Future, called on Prime Minister Andrej Babiš to replace interim minister Petr Macinka with a qualified candidate. Environmental group Greenpeace also protested, warning against any weakening of climate policy under the new government.

Fifteen architectural studios from across Europe will work on the first phase of Prague’s Florenc redevelopment, led by Penta Real Estate, which plans to invest about CZK 20 billion. The project will replace a former railway brownfield with new residential, office and public spaces linking Karlín and Nové Město. Construction is planned to start in 2028, with completion targeted for 2031. The first phase brings together architects from seven countries and follows an earlier urban planning competition that set the framework for the Florenc 21 district.