politics Czech leaders welcome Merz as German chancellor
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala praised Friedrich Merz’s election as German Chancellor, calling it a strong promise for future cooperation. Fiala highlighted shared views on defense, illegal migration, and EU competitiveness. Czech officials, including the Foreign Ministry, expressed optimism for deeper ties. Merz, leader of the CDU, secured his post in the Bundestag’s second round of voting and will now form a government with SPD support.
Diplomacy Russia blasts Czech stance on Russian House
Russia’s ambassador to Prague criticized Czechia’s treatment of the Russian House, claiming it faces hostility and intimidation. Ambassador Zmeyevsky said the cultural center, sanctioned under EU rules, has been targeted by protests and vandalism amid rising tensions over Russia’s war in Ukraine. Relations between the two nations remain strained, with Moscow hopeful that a new Czech ambassador could improve limited diplomatic communication.
Economy Czech mortgage rates drop to lowest since 2022
Mortgage interest rates in Czechia have fallen to their lowest level since mid-2022, averaging 5.17 percent in April, according to the Czech Banking Association’s Hypomonitor. The volume of new mortgages reached CZK 17.6 billion, the highest since June 2022. Analysts attribute the surge to rate cuts by the Czech National Bank and expectations of further reductions. Year-on-year mortgage activity has more than doubled.
safety Czechia launches campaign to cut crossing crashes
One in four pedestrian crashes in Czechia happens at crosswalks, prompting BESIP to launch a new safety campaign. Using videos, interactive displays, and national outreach, the effort stresses shared road responsibility. Officials say most accidents stem from drivers failing to yield and distracted pedestrians. The campaign aims to prevent injuries by promoting eye contact and alert behavior between road users.
Society Czech youth fear future, trust politics less
According to new research by the National Institute SYRI, Czech youth are deeply concerned about climate change, financial insecurity, and inequality. The study reveals rising distrust in politics, limited public discourse, and a preference for community-based activism. Young people fear a declining standard of living and stress from societal expectations while also voicing concern over disinformation and digital isolation.