Czech news in brief for August 20: Wednesday's top headlines

The Czech government will begin discussing next year’s budget in September, after receiving a technical proposal from the Finance Ministry, Prime Minister Petr Fiala has stated. The draft must respect a maximum deficit of CZK 280 billion, up from this year’s planned CZK 241 billion. Fiala noted that no full budget exists yet, only a technical breakdown of mandatory spending. Political negotiations will start after the proposal is delivered on Aug. 31, with the goal of submitting it to the Chamber of Deputies by the end of September.

Czechia has improved its defense capability over the past four years, but challenges remain, according to the annual defense assurance report submitted to the government Monday. Defense spending has risen, military equipment and infrastructure have improved, and some legislative changes have been implemented. Defense Minister Jana Černochová emphasized the need for continued modernization and troop expansion over the next decade to meet NATO obligations and respond to growing global security threats, noting that current efforts are not yet sufficient.

The German technology company Aaronn, a partner of the Czech Military Technical Institute (VTÚ), suffered a cyberattack that led to a fraudulent advance invoice, VTÚ reported. The institute suspended all business with Aaronn and referred the case to the Military Police. The fake invoice concerned the light armored vehicle project, which remains unaffected. VTÚ said the document appeared legitimate and bypassed ordinary checks. Aaronn confirmed the invoice was fake and that its systems were hacked.

Inflation in the Czech Republic slowed to 2.5 percent in July, down from 2.8 percent in June, Eurostat reported. In contrast, annual consumer prices in the European Union rose to 2.4 percent from 2.3 percent. Eurostat uses harmonized data for cross-EU comparisons, which differs from the Czech Statistical Office’s calculations. Month-on-month, prices in the Czech Republic were stable. Among EU countries, Cyprus recorded the lowest inflation at 0.1 percent.

Czech firefighters have concluded a multi-day mission in Montenegro, conducting 108 aerial water drops to combat forest fires, the team reported on X. The seven-member crew, including three specialized firefighters and private helicopter pilots and technicians, flew to Montenegro on Thursday. They operated in mountainous terrain with extreme temperatures and strong winds, complicating efforts. This year, 77 Czech firefighters have assisted abroad. The Black Hawk helicopter, equipped with a water bucket, was key to reaching hard-to-access areas.

Czech President Petr Pavel said negotiations on the Ukraine war are in early stages and urged tempered expectations. He welcomed U.S. and European support for Ukraine and stressed continued pressure on Russia through sanctions. Pavel commented on Zelenskiy’s potential meeting with Putin, noting it remains unconfirmed. He highlighted the need for concrete results and warned that easing sanctions too soon could prolong the conflict.

Veterinarians are recalling smoked chicken thighs from Vodňanská drůbež due to Listeria contamination. About 135 kilograms of vacuum-packed meat, sold in various stores including COOP, Jednota, and Rohlík.cz, are affected. The best-before date is Aug. 25, 2025. Consumers are advised not to eat the product and can return it. Agrofert said it has taken corrective measures, including sanitation and testing, before production resumes.

Czechia saw a 149 pecent rise in sextortion cases in Q2, making it the world’s second most threatened country, up from sixth earlier this year, Gen Digital reports. Scams typically use phishing or social media to demand cryptocurrency in exchange for allegedly sensitive images or videos, which are often AI-generated or fabricated. Authorities warn users to stay vigilant against such fraudulent threats.

More than 70 Czechs have been diagnosed with dengue fever after returning from southern European holidays, health authorities said Tuesday. Cases of chikungunya and malaria are also rising. Tropical mosquitoes, including the Asian tiger mosquito, have established breeding grounds in Italy and France. Officials warn there is currently no local risk in Czechia but urge travelers to use repellents. Climate change and travel contribute to the spread of these diseases.

Hundreds of amethysts hidden under mortar on the ground floor of Kroměříž Castle were discovered during a professional survey of the Baroque grottos, officials said Tuesday. The semi-precious stones, part of 17th-century decorations, include opals, barites, and garnets. Experts say the find is unique in the world. Restoration and further research are planned, with international collaboration expected to preserve the historic spaces for visitors.