Czech news in brief for January 1: Wednesday's top headlines

Czech President Petr Pavel will give his second New Year’s speech at 1 p.m. on Jan.1. He reinstated the tradition of Jan. 1 addresses, departing from the Christmas messages of his predecessor, Miloš Zeman. Pavel’s 2024 speech focused on domestic issues, urging concrete steps toward euro adoption. The New Year’s speech tradition dates back to 1919 under Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, later evolving through successive presidents.

Ukraine halted Russian gas transit to the EU and Moldova after the Gazprom-Naftogaz contract expired, citing national security concerns. The flow stopped at 7 a.m. Kyiv time, marking a historic shift. The EU, prepared for the cessation, emphasized alternative supply routes. Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine has already diminished its dominance in EU gas supplies. Slovakia and Austria assured readiness despite Slovak criticism of Ukraine's decision.

Hockey legend Jaromír Jágr, 52, lost his teeth during the first period of a game in Hradec Králové but celebrated Kladno’s thrilling comeback victory with humor. Sharing his toothless grin online, Jágr joked about sticking to a liquid diet for New Year’s. Fans praised his resilience and comedic posts, with comments applauding his performance and lighthearted attitude. "Teeth lost, but three points gained!" summed up the mood.

The first baby born in Prague in 2025 is Artur, delivered at 00:26 at Motol University Hospital, spokeswoman Jana Merxbauerová reported. Another boy, Matěj, was born 15 minutes later at Podolí’s Institute for Mother and Child Care. Prague traditionally gifts New Year’s Day babies with CZK 15,000. In 2024, 9,062 children were born in the city by September, according to official data.

Prime Minister Petr Fiala declared 2025 a decisive year for Czechia's alignment with the democratic West in a New Year’s video. He highlighted challenges like inflation and Russian aggression and warned against fearmongers promoting Eastern ties. Coalition leaders stressed maintaining Western values and resisting populism. Opposition leaders criticized Fiala’s stance, claiming they reflect reality, not fear. Elections will determine Czechia’s geopolitical direction and societal values.

New Year’s celebrations in Prague saw injuries from fireworks and multiple fires, including balcony blazes in the city center. Police reported 25 medical incidents, including four fireworks-related injuries. Crowds gathered on embankments and bridges to watch displays despite pyrotechnics being banned in central areas since 2020. Firefighters handled 10 incidents in Prague, contributing to a national total of 485. An estimated 100,000 tourists joined the festivities.

The 25th annual Three Kings Collection began Jan. 1, with volunteers raising funds for the needy until Jan. 14. Organized by Caritas Czech Republic, last year’s drive collected a record CZK 176 million. Proceeds aid seniors, the homeless, and others in crisis. Donations can be made in person, by text, or by bank transfer. A televised concert will air on Jan. 5 to support the cause.