Czech news in brief for November 14: Friday's top afternoon headlines

Public satisfaction with democracy in Czechia rose to 47 percent after October’s elections, up seven points year-on-year, a STEM poll shows. Dissatisfaction dropped to 53 percent. Analyst Jitka Uhrová said ANO voters show greater optimism following the movement’s election victory and coalition talks with SPD and the Motorists. Perceptions of civil liberties protection also improved slightly.

Police arrested 16 people in an international operation targeting meth production in Czechia, Hungary, Moldova and Bulgaria, Criminal Police spokeswoman Lucie Smoldasová said. Eleven were detained in Czechia. The group’s founders met in Valdice prison before reestablishing operations abroad. The Czech branch faces penalties of up to 18 years. All suspects except one woman are in custody.

Temperatures in the Šumava Mountains reached 21 degrees Celsius in Kašperské Hory, breaking the 1967 record by nearly 3 degrees, meteorologist František Vavruška said. Several stations reported record highs, including Churáňov at 19.7 degrees Celsius and Kvilda Perla at 19.3 degrees Celsius. The Novohradské Mountains also saw new records. Warm weather will persist through the weekend before cooling, with possible snowfall next week.

UEFA fined Viktoria Plzeň EUR 21,000 (CZK 508,000) for fan misconduct during the Europa League match against Fenerbahçe, including EUR 15,000 (CZK 363,100) for racist or discriminatory behavior and a suspended partial stadium closure. Fenerbahçe received a larger fine of EUR 78,000 (CZK 1.9 million). A home-fan choreography reading “There must be a war with the Turk!” sparked outrage in Turkey.

Czechia joined Germany, Poland, Slovakia, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg in forming the Central and Northern Europe Military Mobility Area. The framework aims to unify border rules, coordinate transport and strengthen infrastructure for faster NATO troop movement. Czech army spokeswoman Magdalena Dvořáková confirmed participation. Lithuania, which leads the effort, says improved mobility is crucial for eastern-flank defense.

Coffee at some of Prague's historic, indie spots might not be as pricey as you think...at least not compared to the Starbucks' of this world (or city).