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Summary for: Czech news in brief for November 8: Saturday's top morning headlines
Russia praises Ukraine flag removal in Prague
1️⃣ Russia praises Ukraine flag removal in Prague
Russian envoy Rodion Miroshnik welcomed the removal of the Ukrainian flag from Czech parliament, calling it proof of Prague’s changing stance toward Kyiv. Ukrainian Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk condemned the move, calling it disrespectful to a symbol of freedom. The flag’s removal was ordered by new Speaker Tomio Okamura, whose far-right SPD party has opposed Czech military and refugee support for Ukraine.
2️⃣ Lawyer: Babiš conflict to be resolved after appointment
Constitutional lawyer Ondřej Preuss said any conflict of interest must be resolved within 30 days after appointment, referring to incoming prime minister Andrej Babiš’s ownership of Agrofert. President Petr Pavel has requested public assurances before naming Babiš to the post. Babiš insists the issue is not a legal barrier, promising to act in line with Czech and EU law once in office.
3️⃣ Prague Stock Exchange hits new record
The Prague Stock Exchange’s PX index rose 0.35 percent to 2,426.91, marking a third consecutive day with a new record high. Gains were led by banks, with Komerční banka up 1.5 percent, Moneta 1.45 percent, and Erste 0.19 percent. Philip Morris ČR also rose. Energy and industrial stocks weighed on the market. The index gained 1.3 percent over the week, driven by financial shares. The Czech crown strengthened to CZK 24.3/USD and 21.00/EUR.
4️⃣ Schillerová says draft budget missing CZK 80 billion
ANO’s Alena Schillerová said the draft 2025 state budget lacks nearly CZK 80 billion, including CZK 38 billion for transport, CZK 32 billion for social spending, and CZK 7 billion for agriculture. Outgoing Finance Minister Zbyněk Stanjura countered that ANO’s figures show disregard for fiscal rules. The outgoing cabinet, led by ODS’s Petr Fiala, plans to revisit the CZK 286 billion deficit proposal next week.
5️⃣ Rare and valuable watches go on display in Prague
The Salon Exceptional Watches fair has opened in Prague’s Žofín Palace, showcasing nearly 2,000 timepieces from global and Czech brands, including Prokop & Brož, Robot, and Prim Manufacture 1949. The most expensive, from Antoine Preziuso Genève, is valued at CZK 261 million. The 11th annual SEW also offers talks, demonstrations, and precision tests. Tickets start at CZK 290, with a VIP gala package for CZK 1,990.
📊 YESTERDAY's POLL RESULTS
Yesterday's poll results found that most readers feel that the Ukrainian flag should continue to fly on Czech government buildings: 60% agreed with the flying of the flag, while 40% did not. Voting is still open. Tell us how you feel about the removal of the Ukrainian flag from Czechia's government buildings.
