Czech news in brief for January 9: Friday’s top afternoon headlines

Czech Foreign Minister Petr Macinka called Russia’s nighttime Oreshnik missile attack on Ukraine “inexcusable” during a visit to Kyiv, dismissing Moscow’s claim it was retaliation for a supposed Ukrainian drone strike on President Putin’s residence. Ukraine and international sources say the alleged drone attack never occurred. Macinka described the strike near EU and NATO borders as a serious threat to European security but expressed hope it could mark the final escalation before peace negotiations.

Czechia was hit by intense snowfall on Jan. 9, causing accidents and major disruptions on highways and main roads. Trucks stuck in hills forced closures on the D5 and D6, while public transport in Prague faced delays and skipped stops. The Mountain Rescue Service warned against ridge hikes in the Krkonoše Mountains due to fog, snow, and strong winds. Authorities said the situation eased after midday, but icy conditions and low temperatures are expected to persist.

Czechia’s electricity distribution network faced its highest load in five years on Thursday, as frosty temperatures pushed gross consumption above 12,000 megawatts. The coldest night of the season increased use of heat pumps, heaters, and other electric devices. Thermal, gas, and nuclear plants covered most demand, while solar contributed modestly. Gas consumption also rose sharply. Continued snowfall and freezing temperatures are expected to keep energy demand elevated in the coming days.

The operators of the Showpark brothel in Prague’s Holešovice Market will move to new premises near Pavlova metro station by Jan. 27, ending a decade-long eviction saga. City officials emphasized that the relocation will not lead to a surge of street prostitution, contrary to the company’s warnings. The move follows unpaid rent disputes and opens the door for redevelopment of the old hall, potentially for offices, shops, or a municipal police station.

Prague workers removed the 22-meter spruce from Old Town Square on January 9, ending the 2025–2026 Christmas market season. Despite heavy snowfall, the tree was lifted with cranes and cut into logs, which students from Jarov Secondary Vocational School will use to make furniture for the Asylum House for Families with Children in Prague 4 and for Jiřetín pod Jedlovou, where the tree originated. Market organizers also dismantled stalls and decorations after the festivities.