Czech news in brief for November 28: Thursday's top headlines

Israeli Foreign Minister to visit Prague today, Czechia pledges over 12mn to NATO Ukraine fund, and Křetínský nears Royal Mail takeover.

Expats.cz Staff ČTK

Written by Expats.cz StaffČTK Published on 28.11.2024 08:39:00 (updated on 28.11.2024) Reading time: 4 minutes

weather Heavy snow, traffic warnings around Czechia

Police in the Hradec Králové region are warning of traffic issues due to heavy snowfall and strong winds expected from Thursday to Friday in northern Czech mountain areas. Up to half a meter of snow could fall, particularly near Šerlich in the Eagle Mountains, where illegal parking often blocks key routes. Drivers are urged to prepare for hazardous conditions as the weekend approaches. In Prague, no snow is expected until Wednesday next week.

sport Czech team rises to 42nd in FIFA rankings

The Czech national football team climbed three spots to 42nd in FIFA's latest rankings after a win over Georgia, and a draw with Albania in November's League of Nations matches. The jump reflects improved form under coach Ivan Hašek following a poor Euro 2024 showing. Argentina retains the top spot, narrowly ahead of France, with Spain third. The next FIFA rankings will be released on Dec. 12. Argentina has held the lead in the rankings since last April.

digitization Czech social security to go fully digital in 2025

The Czech Social Security Administration will become the country's first fully digitized office starting Jan. 1, 2024, enabling people to handle matters entirely online, Labor Minister Marian Jurečka announced this afternoon. The move is part of the government’s program, which also includes pension reform and benefit revisions. Prime Minister Petr Fiala said 93 percent of the government’s pledges are either completed or on track for fulfillment before elections.

politics ANO: Czech PM 'failed' to deliver promises

The opposition ANO movement, led by former Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, criticized today Prime Minister Petr Fiala’s government for failing to keep its promises. They pointed out that Fiala had raised taxes, changed pension indexation, and supported the EU’s ban on internal combustion engines, despite pledging otherwise. The criticism came ahead of a press conference assessing the government's performance that marked the third anniversary of Fiala's appointment as prime minister. "Only a scrap of paper remains of the original policy statement," said a senior party member.

diplomacy Israeli FM to reply 'instantly' to ceasefire break

While visiting Czechia, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that Israel will respond immediately to any violations of the ceasefire agreement and will prevent Hezbollah from advancing south of the Litani River or rearming. Speaking after a meeting with Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský, Saar emphasized that reality on the ground is more important than paperwork. The ceasefire, brokered by the U.S. and France, aims to facilitate the safe return of displaced residents along the Israeli-Lebanese border after over a year of conflict.

consumer Survey: Czechs to save cash this Christmas

According to a survey by finance firm Generali Investments (GI), most Czechs plan to cut spending on Christmas gifts, candy, and New Year's celebrations due to financial concerns, with 58 percent reducing gift budgets, especially for distant relatives. Inflation, particularly rising food prices, exacerbates the issue. GI chief economist Radomír Jáč noted sharp year-on-year increases in butter (40.6 percent) and chocolate prices. Many also forgo winter vacations, prioritizing essential spending as households face mounting financial pressures.

business Czech billionaire nears UK Royal Mail takeover

The BBC reported that the sale of Royal Mail to Czech billionaire Daniel Křetínský’s EP Group is nearing completion and could be finalized within two weeks. In May, International Distribution Services (IDS), which owns Royal Mail, accepted Křetínský’s GBP 3.6 billion (CZK 109 billion) offer, pending approval from British authorities. Trade Minister Jonathan Reynolds called Křetínský a legitimate owner, dismissing concerns over alleged Russia ties.

health Over 25pc of Czechs feel mentally unhealthy

According to financial firm BNP Paribas’ Confidence Index survey, over a quarter of Czechs feel mentally unwell, up from 23 percent last year. Stress impacts over half of those aged 18–24, with 37 percent reporting poor mental health. Czech health specialist Michal Straka notes the economic crisis and pandemic worsened mental health and increased financial reserve needs to CZK 50,000, up from CZK 35,000. The survey also found that Czechs are generally underinsured, contributing to mental health issues.

Diplomacy Israeli FM to discuss Middle East, ties in Prague

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar will meet Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský and Senate President Miloš Vystrčil during his first official trip abroad today. Talks in Prague will focus on the Middle East crisis and bilateral cooperation. The Czech Republic, a strong Israel ally, has supported its right to self-defense and opposed recent UN and EU statements critical of Israeli actions in Palestine and Lebanon.

Ukraine Czechia pledges over 12mn to NATO Ukraine fund

The Czech Republic will donate CZK 12.1 million to NATO’s trust fund for non-military aid to Ukraine, the government announced Monday. The fund, active since 2016, provides essentials like medical supplies, fuel, and winter gear. The donation aligns with Czech foreign policy priorities and supports Ukraine’s transition toward NATO cooperation. Last year, the Czech government pledged up to 60 million crowns to the fund.

russia Slovak PM to attend WWII Victory Day in Moscow

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has announced plans to attend Russia’s May 9 Victory Day celebrations in Moscow, marking the end of World War II. Fico, known for his pro-Russian stance, accepted an invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin. Critics, including opposition leaders, warn the visit could harm Slovakia's EU ties. Fico defends the trip as honoring the Red Army’s role in defeating fascism.

real estate Auction for Prague’s Veleslavín Castle Canceled

The auction for Veleslavín Castle was canceled after no bidders submitted bonds, officials said Monday. Prague and district officials criticized the starting price of CZK 580 million as too high, with the city offering to pay a third. The 1725 Baroque castle, which needs costly renovations, remains unsold. Negotiations with potential public-private partners are ongoing, as Prague seeks a functional use for the property.

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