Czech news in brief for January 20: Tuesday's top afternoon headlines

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Tuesday that “healthy forces” are awakening in several European countries, including the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Germany, and France, according to RIA Novosti. Speaking at a press conference, Lavrov praised leaders who he said prioritize national interests over “imperial ambitions,” citing Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš as an example. The comments follow earlier Russian media coverage welcoming Babiš’s ANO movement’s 2025 election victory.

Seven people were slightly injured in a bus accident in Prague’s Letňany district on Tuesday afternoon. The bus, traveling on Tupolev Street, crashed into a pole, and emergency services said the driver likely collapsed. Five passengers and the driver were initially treated at the scene, with seven patients later transported to hospital. Most injuries were minor, including bruises and head wounds, and victims are being examined at the trauma centre.

Prime Minister Andrej Babiš has dismissed debate over selling four L-159 fighter jets to Ukraine, saying the Czech army needs them. The discussion arose after President Petr Pavel mentioned the potential sale during a visit to Ukraine, without government approval. Defense Minister Jaromír Zůna said the jets remain part of national air defense and selling them would reduce the fleet by a quarter. The government, military, and former officials stress Czech security interests take priority.

The Vysočina Arena in Nové Město na Moravě will host the final Biathlon World Cup event before the Winter Olympics from January 22–25. Races include men’s and women’s endurance events, mixed relays, and mass start competitions. Local authorities warn of road closures, traffic restrictions, and reserved parking for spectators, with shuttle services operating from nearby towns. Around 20,000 fans are expected on weekdays, with higher numbers over the weekend.

Prague’s investment group Penta has secured final permits to start its Žižkov 3.0 project at the former freight station. The first phase will include 280 apartments, a one-hectare park with water features, and shops and medical facilities. The overall plan covers 554 apartments, kindergartens, schools, and green spaces for up to 20,000 residents. Construction is expected to start in the coming weeks, with the first phase scheduled for completion in 2028.