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Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš (ANO) has urged the EU to grant additional free emissions allowances to industries most affected by the ETS 1 system. In a letter sent to European leaders, he argued the measure would help maintain the bloc’s competitiveness while supporting decarbonisation. Babiš proposed that companies receive free allowances on condition they commit to reducing emissions. The European Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen, is already considering adjustments to the system to improve stability. The EU’s emissions trading scheme is designed to cut carbon output by making pollution more costly, but critics say it puts heavy pressure on energy-intensive sectors.

The Czech government has approved a draft law allowing it to regulate fuel prices more easily during crises. Finance Minister Alena Schillerová (ANO) said the measure would enable future cabinets to act swiftly through government decrees, similar to existing rules for electricity and gas. The proposal responds to sharp fuel price increases following the outbreak of war in Iran. The new system would replace current emergency measures under which the Finance Ministry sets daily maximum prices for petrol and diesel. Schillerová wants the bill fast-tracked in parliament so it can take effect as soon as possible.

Czech President Petr Pavel has welcomed the outcome of Hungary’s parliamentary elections, saying voters clearly called for change and that “democracy has won.” He described the result as good news for Europe and congratulated Péter Magyar and his Tisza movement on their victory.  Pavel also praised Viktor Orbán for promptly conceding defeat after 16 years in power. Prime Minister Andrej Babiš also congratulated Magyar despite backing Orbán before the vote. According to near-final results, Tisza secured a strong majority, potentially gaining a constitutional majority in parliament.

Václav Hybš, a renowned Czech trumpeter, conductor and bandleader, has died at the age of 90. He began his musical career in his father’s band and later founded the Orchestra of Václav Hybš, which accompanied many leading Czech pop singers, including Waldemar Matuška who later emmigrated to the USA. Hybš was a familiar face on Czechoslovak television, especially in entertainment shows such as Televarieté, and hosted the radio programme Šlágry od srdce between 2011 and 2017. Over his career, he recorded dozens of albums and more than a thousand singles, earning a Golden Record from Supraphon and a cultural award from the Czech Culture Ministry.