Czech news in brief for November 26: Wednesday's top morning headlines

ANO, SPD and Motorists approved their ministerial nominees on Tuesday, as Andrej Babiš prepares to present the list to President Petr Pavel today. The emerging coalition plans nine ministries for ANO, four for Motorists, and three for SPD, with several former ministers expected to return. Speculation surrounds key posts, including foreign affairs and defense. The development brings the next Czech government one step closer to formation.

Protests were held on Nov. 25 in Prague, Brno, and six other Czech cities against U.S. pressure on Ukraine to accept territorial concessions under President Donald Trump’s proposed peace plan. Demonstrators outside the U.S. Embassy in Prague displayed Ukrainian and EU flags and banners comparing the plan to the 1938 Munich Agreement. Organizers said the proposal amounts to a Ukrainian “surrender,” urging stronger Western support. Events ended with candlelight vigils and national anthems.

NCOZ detectives carried out coordinated raids in Prague and other cities on November 25, 2025, targeting Správa železnic and the Roads and Highways Directorate. Prosecutors say the investigation concerns suspected manipulation of public contracts worth hundreds of millions, including major projects in Pardubice and Brno. No one has been charged yet, but similar raids conducted earlier this month resulted in multiple indictments. The case matters because it may expose systemic corruption in Czech infrastructure spending.

The Ecumenical Council of Churches in Czechia has suspended the Orthodox Church’s membership for one year, citing serious breaches of trust and cooperation. The Council highlighted potential Russian influence, misuse of church services for propaganda, and non-transparent financial management, particularly in Prague. While respecting Orthodox spiritual tradition, the decision aims to encourage proactive steps to rebuild trust. A new chair, Pavel Pokorny, was also elected to lead the Council.

The Museum of Prague will open a new immersive exhibition on Dec. 6, in its renovated Florenc building. Visitors will walk on a floor representing the Vltava River, while 22-meter walls project life along its banks from the 19th century to the present, accompanied by surround sound. Interactive features include tablets for school groups and RFID wristbands for personalized experiences. Admission is free for the first months, and the project cost CZK 340 million.