Czech news in brief for March 17: Sunday's top headlines

The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute has issued a warning for upcoming morning frosts, with temperatures dipping from one to five degrees below zero next week. Fruit trees, especially apricots, peaches, and plums, are vulnerable to damage due to the frost. Protective measures like anti-freeze preparations or misting with water droplets are advised. In the past decade, frosts following early blossoming have decimated crops eight times, emphasizing the need for protective actions against potential damage.

The European Commission has received a proposal from the Czech Republic for the production of penicillin. Health Minister Vlastimil Válek stated in a TV Nova interview that construction would commence upon approval. The location of the factory is yet to be determined. The initiative aims to address medicine shortages, including penicillin. Prime Minister Petr Fiala emphasized the need for Czech self-sufficiency in medicine production.

Dozens gathered to remember the Russian attack on the Mariupol Theater at Prague's Václav Havel Square on the second anniversary of the event Saturday. Organized by the Czech-Ukrainian initiative Hlas Ukrajiny, attendees formed a "children" sign, recalling the tragedy's victims. Russian airstrikes devastated the theater, claiming hundreds of lives as civilians sought refuge. Speakers highlighted ongoing atrocities in Ukraine, including child abductions and prisoner torture. Jevhen Kuleša from the Ukrainian Embassy thanked the Czech Republic for support. The event served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing suffering endured by Ukrainians trapped in conflict.

In Prague's Jan Palach Square, a gathering against racism and fascism brought together several dozen demonstrators in a united stance against xenophobia. Organized by the initiative Together Against Racism and Fascism, participants marched through the city center, stopping at the headquarters of political parties associated with right-wing ideologies. Chants and banners underscored the call for solidarity and inclusivity, with activists highlighting issues ranging from refugee acceptance to historical injustices.

The annual Czech Theatre Critics' Award ceremony celebrated outstanding contributions to the performing arts at Prague's Theater X10 on Saturday evening. Norbert Lichý was recognized posthumously for his role in Otec, while Bakchantky, staged by the National Theater, secured the title of Production of the Year. Anežka Kubátová from Divadl Na zábradlí was also honored for her compelling performance in O Pavlovi. With recognition spanning various categories, the event showcased the richness and diversity of Czech theatrical talent.

The Czech initiative to supply ammunition for Ukraine from outside the EU has garnered respect in Poland, Czech Ambassador Břetislav Dančák confirms. Despite challenges like protests against Ukrainian imports, both countries strongly support Ukraine. Poland's measures, including embargoes and border considerations, aim to protect its producers amid the influx of Ukrainian goods. Prime Minister Petr Fiala recently announced that 18 countries, including Poland, have managed to secure 500,000 rounds of artillery ammunition for Ukraine.

The Temelín Nuclear Power Plant in České Budějovice will temporarily shut down its first production unit today at noon for valve repair on one of its technical water systems. The reactor will be left in a "warmed-up state" for quicker resumption of operations, expected within the week. This planned maintenance, part of regular safety protocols, won't affect electricity supply and follows a recent shutdown of the plant's second unit.

Former Czech President Miloš Zeman, 79, remains in ICU post-surgery for a blood clot in his leg, with stable but serious condition at Motol Hospital. His health will be reassessed Monday. Zeman's aide Vratislav Mynář abstains from visiting per doctors' advice. Zeman's history includes neuropathy and recent wheelchair use. Surgeons performed a common hybrid procedure to restore blood flow.

Wimbledon champion Markéta Vondroušová has withdrawn from the Miami Open following her grandfather's passing. Ranked seventh globally, she also withdrew from the Indian Wells tournament last weekend. The Czech tennis star expressed gratitude for her grandfather's support in a heartfelt Instagram post. Vondroušová has previously credited him for her passion for sports. Her best result this year was reaching the quarterfinals in the Dubai Tennis Championships in February.

Czech Minister of Industry and Trade Jozef Síkela is confident that the current government will approve the construction of at least two new nuclear power units in the Czech Republic. In an interview with Pravo newspaper, Síkela emphasized that the offers received indicate the viability of building either two or four units. The Czech Republic is currently evaluating bids from companies like EDF and KHNP for the construction of up to four new reactors in Dukovany and Temelín, with a contract expected to be signed by the end of 2024.

Residents of Jablonné v Podještědí in Czechia's Liberec Region have crafted a giatn Easter egg using 324 meters of ribbons and 320 meters of wire. The colossal egg, standing three meters tall, took approximately 80 hours to complete. Conceived by local chronicler Hana Janďurová, the egg serves as a festive centerpiece on the town's Náměstí Míru until Easter. This artistic endeavor follows a tradition of unique Easter attractions in the region, including a six-meter bunny in previous years.

The Visegrad Four (V4) group of the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, and Hungary holds differing views on supporting Ukraine and understanding the war's causes, Czech Ambassador to Poland Břetislav Dančák tells Czech News Agency. He underscores the importance of open discussions within the V4 despite these divisions, emphasizing the need to foster regional responsibility. Dančák highlights the significance of maintaining Czech-Polish relations, especially in security matters, amid ongoing cooperation and upcoming joint governmental meetings.