Czech news in brief for January 25: Sunday's top morning headlines

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha has thanked the Czech Republic for practical assistance in easing Ukraine’s winter energy crisis caused by Russian attacks. Writing on social media, he highlighted Czech regional authorities, civil society, and initiatives such as Gift for Putin and Post Bellum, which have funded generators and equipment. Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár also voiced solidarity, announcing a protest over Russian attacks on civilian energy infrastructure.

A smog alert remains in effect in the Moravian-Silesian Region, although air dispersion conditions are gradually improving, according to the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute. Concentrations of PM10 particles have fallen but still exceed the daily limit at all monitoring stations, often by double. The worst levels were recorded in Třinec on Sunday morning. Conditions are expected to improve during the day, but authorities continue to urge vulnerable residents to limit outdoor activity.

Prime Minister Andrej Babiš has retained his position as chairman of the ANO movement with approximately 94 percent of votes at his party’s national assembly in Prague. Deputy PM Karel Havlíček and Finance Minister Alena Schillerová also defended their posts. Babiš emphasized the upcoming Senate elections and suggested the governing coalition should consider a joint candidate for the 2028 presidential race. Delegates praised the movement’s stability and continuity under his leadership.

Water quality in the Znojmo Dam is improving after Monday’s leak of up to 3,000 cubic meters of liquid manure into the Dyje River. The local treatment plant has been shut down as a precaution, with water delivered from Stitary. Intensive flushing continues using increased outflow from the Vranov Dam. Residents can safely use tap water. Officials are coordinating with regional health authorities to restart the plant within 24 hours.

Five Czech female skiers, including long-time top slalom competitor Martina Dubovská, will compete in today’s World Cup slalom in Špindlerův Mlýn. Dubovská, who has struggled with health issues this season, aims to reach the second run. Adriana Jelínková, Alena Labaštová, 16-year-old Natali Anna Machytková, and Elese Sommerová will also start. The first run begins at 9:30 a.m. and the second at 12:15 p.m., with American star Mikaela Shiffrin favored to win.