Czechs mark 57 years since Soviet-led invasion crushed Prague Spring

Czechia is marking the 57th anniversary of the 1968 Soviet-led invasion of Czechoslovakia by Warsaw Pact troops, with ceremonies and gatherings taking place across the country.

Speaking at a commemorative ceremony outside Czech Radio headquarters in Prague, President Pavel warned against distortions of history, urging respect for facts and values, which he said would “enable us to distinguish between what is right and what is evil”.

Senate Speaker Miloš Vystrčil also addressed the gathering, saying that the events of 1968 should serve as a reminder that people willing to sell out their country and nation for profit and power must never again be allowed to lead the state.

Ceremonies, debates and film screenings recalling the invasion and its impact on life in the country in the ensuing two decades are also taking place in Brno, Liberec, Plzeň, Ostrava and other cities.

In the evening, a rally titled “Go Home, Ivan!” will be held outside the Russian Embassy in Prague, marking not only the anniversary of the Soviet-led invasion but also expressing support for Ukraine’s struggle against Russian aggression.