Czech news in brief for November 22: Saturday’s top afternoon headlines

The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute warns of overnight snowfall from 1:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Sunday in eastern Moravia and Silesia. Forecasters expect 5–10 cm of snow, with up to 15 cm in the Beskydy mountains. Meteorologists report persistent snowfall that will ease Sunday afternoon. Most Czech mountains currently have only a few centimeters of natural snow, though many ski resorts have begun snowmaking.

Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský said the government is closely studying the U.S. plan to end the war in Ukraine and discussing it with allies in the “coalition of the willing.” He warned that some provisions could affect European defense and Czech security. Lipavský said Europe is working with Washington on revisions and reaffirmed Prague’s full support for Ukraine.

Workers on Saturday felled this year’s Christmas tree for Prague’s Old Town Square in Lesná near Jiřetín pod Jedlovou. The 26-meter spruce, about 62 years old, was trimmed to 22 meters and secured for transport. More than 60 people assisted with the operation. The tree will reach Prague early next week for installation and decoration ahead of the holiday market.

ANO deputy leader Karel Havlíček said Andrej Babiš is the only candidate to lead the incoming ANO-SPD-Motorists government. He told TV Nova the coalition unanimously backs Babiš and expects him to meet President Petr Pavel’s demand to resolve his Agrofert conflict of interest before appointment. Havlíček said the coalition holds a stable majority and considers Babiš its “irreplaceable” leader.

Firefighters are completing the extinguishing of a large overnight fire at an industrial hall in Vysoké Mýto’s Dráby Street. No serious injuries were reported, but damage is expected to reach tens to hundreds of millions of crowns. Dozens of units responded, using drones and heavy machinery as the hall began to be dismantled. Air quality readings remained normal and residents can now safely ventilate homes.

Czechia is introducing new regulations on fireworks starting Dec. 1, including restricted zones around hospitals, zoos, and other facilities. Do you agree with these new rules?