Czech news in brief for February 13: Friday's top morning headlines

The 62nd Munich Security Conference begins today, with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivering the opening address. The three-day forum will host world leaders to discuss global security, the conflict in Ukraine, and Transatlantic relations. Czech representatives are expected to participate in high-level talks. The event serves as a critical platform for diplomatic negotiations amid escalating geopolitical tensions across Europe and the Middle East.

Czech President Petr Pavel has criticized the exclusion of a Ukrainian skeleton athlete from the Winter Olympics, labeling the decision unfair. The athlete was disqualified following a dispute over equipment regulations. Pavel expressed support for the competitor, emphasizing that Olympic spirit should prioritize fairness. The situation has sparked debate among international sporting officials regarding the strictness of technical protocols and their impact on athletes from war-torn nations.

A hazardous viral trend known as the "Red Dolphin" is spreading among Czech youth on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Similar to past dangerous challenges, it involves "curators" assigning increasingly harmful tasks to participants, including self-harm and risky physical feats. Experts warn parents to monitor children's online activity, as the challenge uses psychological manipulation and threats against family members to ensure compliance from vulnerable adolescents.

Prague Zoo has confirmed cases of avian influenza following the deaths of several birds on its premises. The State Veterinary Administration implemented immediate quarantine measures to protect the remaining collection. While certain walkthrough exhibits are closed to the public, the zoo remains open with heightened biosecurity protocols in place. Authorities are monitoring wild bird populations in the surrounding Troja district to prevent further spread of the highly contagious virus.

The Czech men’s national hockey team suffered a 5-0 defeat against Canada in their opening match of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. Despite a competitive first period, the Czech squad struggled to contain the Canadian offense, conceding the first goal just seconds before the opening break. Coach Radim Rulík’s team will look to bounce back quickly as they face France this Friday afternoon in their second group stage game.