Czech news in brief for December 22: Sunday's top headlines

Temporary protection for 387,000 Ukrainian refugees in Czechia may end if a ceasefire in Ukraine is negotiated, as promised by U.S. president-elect Donald Trump, according to the Interior Ministry. The program, tied to the ongoing conflict, allows refugees to apply for extensions until March 2026. Discussions on transition plans and EU-wide decisions are underway, with most refugees expressing a desire to remain in Czechia. A Ministry survey shows 66 percent are employed, contributing positively to the economy.

A 28-kilometer section of the D3 motorway, including the České Budějovice bypass, opened in southern Bohemia on Thursday, easing travel between Úsilné and Kaplice. The 14.5-billion-crown project faced delays due to groundwater issues, rising material costs, and the pandemic. Highlighting the Pohůrka tunnel, a technological feat, officials called the motorway vital for local traffic and economic growth. Transport Minister Martin Kupka said it simplifies travel south to Austria and beyond. The full 170-kilometer D3 is set for completion by 2031, linking Prague to Austria.

A fryer fire at a KFC in Prague’s Metropole Zličín shopping center prompted the evacuation of approximately 3,000 shoppers Saturday evening. The fire, extinguished before firefighters arrived, occurred around 7:30 p.m. No injuries were reported. Investigators are examining the cause and damage, while the mall resumed operations later in the evening. The incident disrupted holiday shopping but was swiftly contained by staff.

Prague has installed concrete barriers at Republic Square’s Christmas market and plans similar measures on the embankment, following Friday's deadly attack on a Magdeburg, Germany, market. Police have increased patrols at high-traffic areas, including Wenceslas and Old Town squares, to ensure public safety. Interior Minister Vít Rakušan confirmed no immediate threat to the Czech Republic, while authorities remain in contact with German officials. The Magdeburg attack killed five and injured over 200.

Addiction experts have called on Czech MPs to amend the proposed cannabis rules in the criminal law update. While the draft allows growing three plants, it bans harvesting and processing, which experts argue won't decriminalize cannabis or reduce imprisonment rates. Justice Minister Pavel Blažek says the proposal must secure broad support. Advocates suggest conservative changes to address penalties and permitted quantities, urging bipartisan cooperation to protect cannabis users from harsh sentences.