Babiš proposes new plan amid budget deficit and energy fears.
Get European news in your inbox daily
A short daily digest of the whole continent — or just the countries you care about.
Check your email. We've sent a confirmation link — click it to complete your subscription.
Czechia is grappling with significant economic challenges, as a projected historic state budget deficit for the coming year raises concerns, with half of the expenses allocated to pensions, benefits, and debt interest. Major businesses are voicing fears that continued energy price hikes could force them to cease operations, prompting the government to consider aid measures like price caps.
Politically, a new controversy has emerged as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Jaromír Zůna faced intense scrutiny for preventing the Chief of Staff from attending a conference in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Andrej Babiš is actively shaping domestic policy, proposing a debated 'million for a second child' initiative and holding a meeting with President Petr Pavel, a move that suggests a potential de-escalation of tensions between the two leaders.
Further developments include police detaining five individuals following the recent raid on Nymburk Town Hall, and doctors raising concerns over rising tuberculosis cases in Czechia, calling for stricter measures and more hospital beds.