Czech news in brief for October 2: Wednesday's top headlines

The Czech Republic blocked a European Union statement calling for an "immediate ceasefire" between Israel and Hezbollah, preventing a unified stance. Czechia, along with Hungary and Austria, strongly supports Israel. EU diplomacy chief Josep Borrell issued his own statement, expressing concern for civilian casualties in Lebanon and urging diplomacy. Czech officials have not yet commented on the decision.

The Czech Health Ministry has received 1,979 compensation claims for illegal sterilizations, mostly affecting Roma women from the 1960s to 2007. Nearly 1,400 claims have been processed, with less than half approved, resulting in payouts of almost 200 million CZK. Victims have until January 2025 to apply under the 2022 compensation law, which offers 300,000 CZK per claim.

Czech lawmakers approved raising the 2024 budget deficit to 282 billion CZK due to flood recovery costs. The increase from 252 billion CZK addresses damage caused by recent severe floods. The original budget plan aimed for a lower deficit, but unforeseen expenses necessitated the adjustment, according to the Ministry of Finance.

Czech and Ukrainian police, with support from Eurojust, dismantled an international telephone fraud gang targeting European Union residents. Operating from call centers, the group extracted money from victims through elaborate scams. Authorities have detained key members of the criminal organization.

Škoda Auto announced that its new Elroq electric vehicle (EV) will hit the market in the first quarter of 2025. The compact SUV, aimed at the growing EV market, features advanced battery technology and a range suitable for urban commuting. The Elroq is expected to strengthen Škoda’s presence in the electric vehicle sector.