Tens of thousands of people demonstrated in the Czech capital (Prague) today, Saturday, to denounce the government's policies, which they accuse of focusing on the issue of Ukraine more than on solving the problems of its citizens, expressing also their opposition to the European Union and NATO.
Far-right parties and the Communist Party organized the demonstration in the historic Wenceslas Square under the slogan "Czech Republic First." The protesters demanded the resignation of the center-right government led by Peter Fiala, which took office last December.
Denouncing the accelerating inflation fueled by high energy prices and reflected in electricity prices, the protesters said that the Central European Czech Republic should be militarily neutral and ensure direct contracts with gas suppliers, including Russia.
The protest came a day after the government survived a no-confidence vote, amid accusations from the opposition of not taking any action in the face of inflation and high energy prices.
demand change
The police estimated the number of demonstrators at 70,000, and one of the organizers said, "The aim of our demonstration is to demand change, especially with regard to solving the problem of energy prices, electricity and gas in particular, which will destroy our economy this fall."
For his part, Prime Minister Peter Fiala said that the demonstration was organized by "pro-Russian people who are close to extremist positions, and whose interests conflict with those of the Czech Republic."
"It is clear that the Russian propaganda and disinformation campaigns are present on our territory, and some people are simply listening to it," Fiala added.
It is noteworthy that the Czech Republic, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the European Union, has received about 40,000 refugees from Ukraine since the start of the Russian war on Ukraine on February 24, and has provided Kyiv with significant military and humanitarian aid.