Czech news in brief for June 24: Monday's top headlines

Czech athlete Vítězslav Veselý, a double Olympic medalist and world and European champion in the javelin throw, has announced his retirement at the age of 41. During his career, Veselý won six medals, including bronzes at the 2012 and 2021 Olympics, gold at the 2013 World Championships and 2012 European Championships, and two silvers at the 2014 and 2016 European Championships. "Thanks to everyone who has supported me throughout my career and been a big part of my journey,” he said on the Czech Athletics Federation website today.

The Industrial Alliance of Trade Unions has agreed this afternoon to negotiate a wage increase of 7 to 10 percent for 2025. Some sectors, such as energy and chemistry, may push for even higher additions from employers. The alliance also proposes a moderate shift in retirement age, while recommending investment incentives for the Liberty Ostrava smelter. Karel Klusák of the ECHO union mentioned higher demands in critical industries due to technological advancements. The textile industry is negotiating for a 7 percent wage increase.

Slovak police have arrested Czech citizen Pavel Zítko, who was wanted by Czech authorities for spreading false news. A European arrest warrant had also been issued for him. The district court in Chomutov had issued a warrant for his arrest last year, but two scheduled court hearings were canceled as Zítko refused to appear. Czech police arrested Zítko last October on suspicion of embezzlement. He was released shortly after his arrest. The same month, police charged him, along with seven other people, with disorderly conduct over an incident at Prague City Court in late May 2023.

Czech Defense Minister Jana Černochová and Argentine Defense Minister Luis Alfonso Petri met in Prague to discuss deepening bilateral cooperation in the defense industry and address current security issues. They signed a Memorandum of Understanding and discussed the possibility of trading small arms, ammunition, and ground equipment for the modernization of the Argentine armed forces. Minister Černochová expressed optimism about partnering with Argentina and highlighted their shared views on security challenges such as the conflict in Ukraine and Israel's fight against Hamas. 

A June STEM survey revealed shifts in voter sentiment post-European elections, with some parliamentary parties weakening. The ANO movement leads with nearly 33 percent support, followed by ODS at around 15 percent. The Pirates and SPD saw declines, while the communists and Oath with Motorists gained momentum. The communists exceeded 5 percent for the first time, and the Přísaha movement also improved. The People's Party faced a significant drop, garnering only 2.5 percent.

Argentina's President Javier Milei visits the Czech Republic today, six months after his election. At Prague Castle, he and Czech President Petr Pavel will discuss bilateral relations, global security, and Argentina's political situation. Milei will also lecture on government inefficiency at the Žofín Palace. Argentina, a key Latin American export market for Czech companies, shares the Czech Republic's stance on Russian aggression against Ukraine.

The renovated Máj department store on Národní and Spálená streets opens today. It features shops, restaurants, an entertainment center, and a rooftop terrace across nine floors. Reconstruction began in mid-2022, costing CZK 4.5 billion. Highlights include a Tesco, various eateries, arcade games, mini golf, a children's amusement park, historical exhibitions, and a panoramic restaurant. The facade displays David Černý’s butterfly sculptures.

Czech President Petr Pavel emphasized the need to connect tax re-distribution with the quality of life in regions, advocating for more support to weaker areas. Speaking to citizens on his two-day visit to Karlovy Vary, he suggested higher tax distribution coefficients for struggling regions. Pavel highlighted that systemic changes require political courage, which is currently lacking. Local issues and regional disparities will dominate his discussions with local representatives.

Boston Bruins star David Pastrňák , 28, won the Golden Stick award for the seventh time as the best Czech hockey player. The ceremony, held at Prague's Žofín Palace Palace, marked the end of the Czech hockey season. Pastrňák, who scored the winning goal in the World Championship final, was followed by Lukáš Dostál and Martin Nečas Jaromir Jagr holds the record with 12 wins.