Czech news in brief for January 24: Saturday's top afternoon headlines

Czech President Petr Pavel said Europe must reduce reliance on the United States for security and become an equal partner capable of handling its own defense. Speaking on Nova TV, he noted that former US presidents, and particularly Donald Trump, emphasized that the Western Hemisphere is the US priority. Pavel called for a stronger European pillar within NATO to ensure allies can act independently while maintaining cooperation with the US, citing concerns over unity amid global challenges.

Western Czechia will see heavy snow this weekend as a low-pressure system moves across the country tomorrow. Snow accumulations could exceed 10 cm, with wet, heavy snow likely to disrupt Monday morning traffic. The snow will primarily affect areas west of the country, while eastern regions remain warmer with rain. The snow cover is expected to be short-lived, as temperatures will rise after the system passes, limiting lasting accumulation.

More than 100 people gathered on Prague’s Charles Bridge to mark Ukraine’s Unity Day. Participants carried a large Ukrainian flag, sang, and chanted slogans supporting Ukraine. Ukrainian Ambassador Vasyl Zvaryč thanked Czechs for solidarity and highlighted recent fundraising efforts for generators. The event included a moment of silence for war casualties and drew both Ukrainians and Czechs, emphasizing international support amid ongoing Russian attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure.

Prime Minister Andrej Babiš said the governing coalition of ANO, SPD, and Motorists should consider offering a joint candidate in the 2028 presidential election, with discussions to start by early 2027. SPD chairman Tomio Okamura supported the initiative, emphasizing a candidate representing citizens rather than external interests. Incumbent President Petr Pavel has indicated he may seek re-election if supported and in good health, making him the likely favorite for a second term.

President Petr Pavel said the decisive factor in freeing Czech citizen Jan Darmovzal from Venezuela was the U.S. military intervention that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, shortening negotiations that involved diplomats and church leaders. Darmovzal was released last week and flown home by Czech special forces. Pavel acknowledged the legal controversy of the U.S. action but said it created conditions for prisoner releases that might otherwise have taken much longer.