Czech news in brief for March 19: Wednesday's top headlines

Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský said a phone call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin did not bring significant progress on Ukraine, with no ceasefire agreement reached. Lipavský criticized Russia for not backing down on its demands. Despite agreeing to suspend attacks on energy infrastructure, skepticism remains over Russia’s willingness to negotiate a lasting peace. Some Czech leaders criticized the call’s outcome, while others, like Tomio Okamura, remain hopeful for further talks.

Czech Defense Minister Jana Černochová dismissed calls to restore conscription, citing a lack of resources, barracks, and training staff. While military service remains mandatory for citizens up to age 60, Černochová emphasized strengthening the professional army and voluntary reserves instead. Her comments follow a proposal from Senator Jiří Čunek, who argued for conscription, citing Israel’s example. The government is also increasing defense spending to 3 percent of GDP by 2030.

The Czech Culture Ministry has confirmed the Napajedla stud farm in South Moravia as a cultural heritage site, rejecting appeals from farm owners. The breeding of English Thoroughbreds ended in January 2023, after years of financial subsidies. The owners had requested that only certain stables be designated as heritage, but the decision applies to the entire site. The decision can only be appealed in court.

Russia perceives Europe as weak and lacking unity, which is dangerous, Czech Chief of General Staff Karel Řehka warned at a security conference Monday. He stressed the urgency of European defense, calling for increased military spending and structural reforms. Řehka argued Europe must prepare independently, as U.S. support may wane. NATO targets demand at least 3 percent GDP spending, but Czechia is falling short.

The Czech Republic is rallying EU support to keep Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) operational after U.S. funding cuts, Minister Martin Dvořák said Monday. Seven countries back Prague’s initiative, with talks ongoing with EU officials. Dvořák hopes for a compromise with the U.S. or partial European funding. Czech officials also consider buying the station but face financial hurdles.

A new amendment to the Higher Education Act, effective in March, requires Czech universities to issue updated diplomas free of charge for graduates who have legally changed their gender. Previously, some universities refused, leaving individuals unable to prove their education. The change follows years of advocacy by Ombudsman Stanislav Křeček, who highlighted cases of discrimination and employment barriers for transgender graduates.

Škoda Group has introduced a nearly 60-meter Škoda ForCity Smart 38T tram, reportedly the world’s longest, for Germany’s Rhein-Neckar-Verkehr (rnv). Twelve of these trams will operate in Mannheim, Ludwigshafen, and Heidelberg. Part of a EUR 400 million contract for 114 trams, the vehicle carries 368 passengers and reaches 80 km/h. The first serially produced unit will enter service within months.

The Czech Ministry of Transport will extend the overtaking ban for trucks to around 50 kilometers of highways this summer to improve traffic flow. However, transport operators argue it may slow down traffic instead. Police recorded 8,300 overtaking violations last year, with nearly 1,000 cases in early 2025 alone. Drivers warn of issues in hilly areas where speed differences create congestion.

The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (CHMI) will open its workplaces to the public on March 22, focusing on weather extremes. Visitors can explore meteorological stations, witness a weather balloon launch, and learn about climate, air, and water quality. Regional branches offer interactive activities, including storm hunting and tornado creation. CHMI experts will discuss droughts, floods, and biometeorology, with special programs for children.