Czech news in brief for March 12: Wednesday's top headlines

The Czech Republic has deployed 150 soldiers to Bosnia and Herzegovina to reinforce an EU mission amid rising tensions. The troops arrived this week to assist a 1,000-strong EU force in overseeing the Dayton peace agreement. Czech Defense Minister Jana Černochová stated the deployment, which includes Czech, Romanian, and Italian units, is a preventive measure due to worsening security. The soldiers will monitor the situation but are not expected to engage in active combat.

Obesity in the Czech Republic has reached critical levels, with 64 percent of Czechs now overweight or obese, according to a new Ipsos survey. That marks a four-point increase from the last survey. Experts warn obesity raises risks of diabetes, heart disease, and infertility. Despite growing awareness, many underestimate their BMI and neglect health risks. While over half of Czechs plan to lose weight, few seek medical advice. Doctors emphasize that obesity is a complex disease requiring professional treatment.

Ukraine has agreed to a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire, but analysts say Russia’s response remains uncertain as it gains ground. Talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, led to renewed U.S. intelligence sharing and security aid for Ukraine. Experts suggest Ukraine aims to appear open to peace, while Russia risks blame if it rejects the deal. Analysts also warn that lasting peace depends on Russia’s commitment, with potential for increased sanctions or military aid if it refuses.

Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala called a defense budget increase to 3 percent of GDP within five years a "necessary step." Speaking this morning, Fiala and military leaders stressed the funds would enhance combat capabilities amid rising security concerns. Defense Minister Jana Černochová dismissed speculation about canceling the F-35 purchase, reaffirming its necessity. Chief of Staff Karel Řehka emphasized readiness to utilize the funding, urging policy adjustments to ensure effective military investment.

The Czech army needs 7,500 more soldiers to meet new security demands, Chief of Staff Karel Rehka said Wednesday. Speaking during Prime Minister Petr Fiala’s visit, Rehka stressed the need to adapt the army for high-intensity conflict. The current force of 24,000 must grow to 37,500 by 2030 to meet NATO commitments. Rehka called for political consensus on potential structural changes to ensure the army’s readiness for evolving global threats.

Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský and Vice PM Vít Rakušan welcomed the results of U.S.-Ukraine talks in Saudi Arabia, praising a proposed 30-day ceasefire to the war started by Russia as a key step toward a just peace. Rakušan, who noted that President Donald Trump's halting of military intelligence was a "step in the wrong direction," said the pause will test Russia’s willingness to end the war. The U.S. pledged to resume intelligence sharing and security aid to Ukraine, with further talks expected this week.

Dozens of Czech lawmakers wore traditional folk costumes to parliament Wednesday to celebrate the Day of Folk Costumes and Regions. Opposition leaders Radim Fiala and Alena Schillerová joined the event, which featured folk music and craft displays. Culture Minister Martin Baxa, in a suit, called folk attire a symbol of heritage. The annual tradition was launched by MP Radek Vondráček.

The Prague Public Transport Company (DPP) has reopened the Florenc metro station on line C after a water leak forced its closure Sunday evening. The issue, caused by construction-related damage to a water supply line, disrupted service for nearly 24 hours. Repairs at the station, ongoing since 2022, will continue through 2025, with further weekend closures expected. The next planned shutdown is in April.

The Prague 1 District Town Assembly has proposed naming a Lesser Town embankment after late politician and diplomat Karel Schwarzenberg. The city council will decide on the request. Mayor Terezie Radomerska called the location "one of the most beautiful places" in the district. A petition supporting the initiative has gathered thousands of signatures, citing Schwarzenberg’s lifelong service to Czech society.

Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh christened a female Przewalski’s horse foal "Dagina" (Heavenly Fairy) at Prague Zoo during his visit to Czechia. The zoo has played a key role in reintroducing the species to Mongolia. Khurelsukh also signed a conservation pact for wild camels, with Prague Zoo set to lead their protection in Europe.