Czech news in brief for March 15: Sunday’s top afternoon headlines

About half of Czechs believe small amounts of alcohol are beneficial to health, according to a study by researchers at the Charles University Faculty of Arts. The survey of 1,022 adults found persistent myths about alcohol, including beliefs that it improves sleep or prevents heart disease. Researchers say such misconceptions can downplay risks, as the Czech Republic remains among the world’s highest consumers of alcohol.

Finance Minister Alena Schillerová said pledges to raise defence spending beyond 2 percent of GDP are unrealistic for the Czech Republic. Speaking on CNN Prima News, she said the government plans only moderate increases despite alliance targets within NATO. Opposition figures, including Martin Kupka, criticised the cabinet, saying the country risks failing to meet its defence commitments.

Natálie Vachatová, an adviser to Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, sparked criticism after saying most Russians support Vladimir Putin regardless of propaganda. Writing on the X platform, she argued that criticism of Putin can be seen as criticism of Russia. The Czech Foreign Ministry and other countries have previously described Russia’s 2024 presidential election as undemocratic.

The Police of the Czech Republic will acquire 11 new helicopters from Airbus Helicopters in a deal worth about CZK 4.1 billion, according to a contract signed with the Czech Interior Ministry. The aircraft will support medical transport, firefighting, search-and-rescue, and police operations. Deliveries are expected between 2029 and 2031, with part of the funding likely coming from European sources.

A 14-year-old girl was hospitalized with a head injury after falling from a ride at Prague’s Matějská pouť fair on Saturday evening. Police said the teenager was properly secured but felt unwell and lost control while on the Break Dance attraction. Paramedics treated her at the scene before taking her to hospital. Czech Police are investigating the incident, though no alcohol was involved and safety systems were functioning.