CZOwnership & classification
Founded: 2016
Ownership
Seznam Zprávy is the original news desk of Czech internet company Seznam.cz, launched in 2016. Seznam.cz was founded in 1996 by Ivo Lukačovič; after buying back foreign investors he holds 100% ownership, structured through the Cyprus holding Helifreak Limited. There is no party, state or other controlling interest beyond Lukačovič.
Funding
Funded commercially through advertising on the dominant Seznam.cz portal and search engine, plus video and premium content; no state, licence-fee or party funding.
Affiliation & stance
A broadly centrist original-journalism newsroom. It is privately and wholly owned by a single Czech tech entrepreneur (Ivo Lukačovič) with no party, church or government control, so it is INDEPENDENT, though concentration under one owner is worth noting.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Center
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 607
83/100
Factual
76/100
Objective
948
Articles
948
reports
Top stories
Most covered right now
U.S. and Iran agree to cease attacks and return to talks
Morocco won the world's respect after eliminating the Netherlands
Venezuelan opposition leader: Government prevents me from entering the country after earthquake
Chatbots: WhatsApp must allow AI assistants from other providers free of charge
Heat waves in the Czech Republic are longer and more intense, similar episodes will increase, says geographer
Trump chce, ať Česko plní závazky. „Nejsme jejich kolonie,“ opáčil Babiš
The death toll from last week's earthquake in Venezuela has risen to 2,295.
The Prague city council has removed Prokop from the supervisory board of the transport company.
We are not throwing a dagger in the back of the government, as the Prime Minister claims, says Zamrazilova of CNB
Recent coverage
In 15 regions of Russia, restrictions on the sale of fuel were introduced for 24 hours
At least 15 regions in Russia implemented fuel sales restrictions on June 23 due to a fuel shortage caused by attacks on oil refining facilities by Ukrainian drones. The restrictions include limiting fuel purchases to specific volumes per person and banning refueling into cans. These measures were introduced in major regions such as Khanty-Mansiysk, Belgorod, Bryansk, Kursk, Tyumen, Novosibirsk, Saratov, Penza, Omsk, Voronezh, Murmansk, and Krasnoyarsk. Authorities cited the need to prevent artificial shortages and excessive demand. In Irkutsk Oblast, some gas stations imposed limits while others stopped operating entirely. Governor Igor Kobzev initially linked the fuel shortage to drone strikes but later removed this statement. In Vladimir Oblast, residents were urged to reduce car travel, and in North Ossetia, authorities ordered the creation of an emergency fuel reserve. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak described the situation as 'not simple but controlled,' attributing regional restrictions to temporary logistical issues. Fuel sales have effectively halted in Crimea after an attack on a logistics hub in the Kerch Strait, with the Russian Federal Antimonopoly Service also禁止
An American gets the maximum amount of recovery time at Wimbledon.
The article discusses the scheduling of the first-round doubles match at Wimbledon involving American tennis player Serena Williams and her sister Venus Williams against the Argentine-Colombian pair Solana Sierra and Camila Osorio. The match was initially scheduled for Thursday and Friday but has been postponed due to Serena's injury during her singles match. Tournament organizer Andy Murray (likely a misstatement, as Andy Murray is a British player, and the correct name might be someone like Ashley Barker or another official) stated they are giving Serena as much time as possible to recover. They ruled out postponing the match to later dates unless necessary for safety or tournament flow. The match is expected to take place on a larger court to accommodate the large crowd attracted by Serena and Venus, who are major stars. Serena returned to professional tennis after four years, but she lost her first singles match and injured her knee. She did not attend a press conference afterward due to health reasons and expressed her commitment to participating in the doubles event. Serena and Venus have won six doubles titles together, including a title in 2016.
Ukraine reports two dead after night attacks by Russia, with the death toll in Kiev rising to 30.
At least two people were killed and eight injured in Russian air strikes on the Sumy region and Kryvyj Rih in Ukraine during the night of Thursday to Friday, according to Ukrainian authorities. This follows a large-scale Russian attack on Kyiv earlier in the week which killed at least 30 people and injured around 100 others. In response to the attacks, Ukraine conducted missile strikes on Belgorod in Russia, causing a fire at an energy facility and killing one woman, according to Russian media. The overnight strike on the city of Romny in the Sumy region hit a residential building, killing two women and injuring a man, reported regional administrator Oleh Hryhorov via Telegram. Another seven people were injured in a missile strike on Kryvyj Rih, according to military city administrator Oleksandr Vilkul. In Kyiv, teams discovered three more dead bodies during the night, bringing the total number of victims to 30, according to Reuters citing Ukrainian health authorities. Kyiv's military administrator Tymur Tkačenko stated that the attack injured 99 people. Moscow claimed the extensive attack was a response to Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, including those carried
As in the old days, the Charlevoix Festival will present Almodóvar's film in the Marian Baths.
The Karlovy Vary International Film Festival will screen Pedro Almodóvar's new film 'Bitter Christmas' in Mariánské Lázně ahead of its wider release across Czech cinemas starting August 6. The film explores themes of artistic creation and personal relationships through two intertwined narratives—one focusing on a renowned filmmaker and the other on a young advertising director dealing with grief. Almodóvar presented the film at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year, where he called on creators to speak out against societal crises and figures like Donald Trump, Benjamin Netanyahu, and Vladimir Putin. While the film received mixed reviews, with some critics finding it slightly disjointed, it is part of the festival’s 60th anniversary celebrations and includes a special section revisiting classic films from past festivals.
The surrounded soldiers are eating mice.
The article discusses the ongoing conflict between Ukrainian and Russian forces along the Zaporizhia front, highlighting the challenges faced by Ukrainian troops who are isolated and surviving on limited resources such as water from puddles and mice. It notes that this situation is not isolated, as Russian units are repeatedly penetrating Ukrainian defenses, isolating positions over time. In response, Ukraine has deployed specialized drones to counter Russian drones like the 'Baba Jaga' type, which disrupt supply lines. The article suggests that this strategy of targeting logistics could be a new Russian tactical innovation, mirroring Ukraine’s efforts against Russian logistics. However, it emphasizes that this slow campaign is not yet enough to force Russia into retreat. Meanwhile, on the battlefield, Russian infantry and glide bombs continue their advance, creating a faster-paced conflict. The article cites data from French analyst Clement Molin, who reported a significant increase in attacks on Russian supply vehicles, disrupting fuel and rail access. Analysts suggest these strikes are gradually weakening Russia but have not yet caused a major shift in the war. Ukrainian General
In the tropical Pacific, El Niño conditions have set in, researchers say.
The article reports that researchers from New Zealand’s Earth Sciences organization (ESNZ) have identified conditions consistent with the El Niño climate phenomenon in the tropical Pacific. They warn that impacts on New Zealand’s weather are likely to intensify over the coming months. The ESNZ joined other organizations in Australia, Japan, and the U.S. in confirming the development of El Niño, which is expected to reach strong intensity between July and September. The effects are projected to peak during the Southern Hemisphere summer, spanning late 2023 into early 2024. According to lead researcher Chris Brandolini, this El Niño event is at least comparable in strength to five of the strongest recorded El Niños in modern history. The article outlines regional rainfall expectations, noting potential below-average precipitation in some areas and above-normal levels in others. It also mentions possible temperature fluctuations and increased wind variability later in the year. Additionally, it notes two lower-probability risks: sudden stratospheric warming and the occurrence of a tropical cyclone outside the typical season, both historically linked to El Niño. Brandolini connects the
The gun amnesty ends today, the police will announce the results next week
The firearms amnesty in the Czech Republic, which allowed people to legally surrender or register illegally held weapons and ammunition without facing charges, is set to end on Tuesday. The amnesty was announced in January for six months as part of new firearm legislation, which included changes to weapon categories and digitization of firearm permits. Police authorities indicated they will likely publish results next week, according to police spokesperson Irena Brodská. Individuals can still surrender illegal weapons, ammunition, explosives, and other related items at any police station until Tuesday. Authorities advise caution when handling found ammunition, recommending contacting pyrotechnicians instead. During this amnesty, citizens could also request registration of illegally held weapons if they were not used in criminal acts, provided they had appropriate permissions. Notable items surrendered include a rare 81mm mortar, a miniature self-loading pistol called 'Kolibri,' and historical firearms such as a Czechoslovak light machine gun and a Soviet submachine gun. This amnesty marks the sixth time since 2017 that such a program has been implemented, with over 3,800 weapons и
After the heat wave, the Czech Republic will be divided by a cold front: strong storms will hit the West
After breaking the absolute Czech temperature record of 41.9°C in Doksany over the weekend, the country is expected to experience a significant weather shift on Monday. Meteorologists predict that a cold front will move in from the west, dividing the nation into two distinct climate zones. While most of the country will see temperatures ranging between 31–36°C, extreme heat will persist in Moravia and Silesia, reaching up to 39°C. In contrast, western and northwestern Bohemia will experience much cooler conditions, with maximum temperatures around 28°C. The Plzeň Region will show notable local differences, with temperatures rising to 31°C on the east and dropping to 26°C on the west. The Šumava Mountains and northern mountainous areas will be even cooler, at 24°C and 20°C respectively. With the arrival of the cold front, cloud cover will increase, bringing rain and thunderstorms across the country. These storms could be severe, with heavy rainfall, strong winds, and large hailstones. Weather models remain uncertain about the exact intensity and location of these phenomena, but early signs indicate that intense thunderstorms have already begun forming along the borders of the South捷
Five SW: Hot days are on the rise. Packages from China are going up. Putin wants to live forever.
The article covers five main topics. First, it discusses allegations against Radim Fiala, a deputy leader of the Czech Social Democratic Party (SPD), regarding his financial interests tied to a holding company that secures large contracts, including connections to a trust fund and legal representation linked to him. Second, it highlights climate change in the Czech Republic, showing data indicating an increase in hot days compared to previous decades. Third, it reports on politician Filip Turek, who claims he has limited oversight over meetings of the State Environmental Fund due to other responsibilities. Fourth, it mentions Russian efforts to extend human life through biotechnology, citing President Vladimir Putin's comments on potential immortality. Lastly, it addresses new EU regulations imposing a flat tax on small packages imported from outside the EU, particularly affecting Chinese imports, aiming to address environmental concerns and product safety.
Bulgaria will not support new EU sanctions against Russia, says Prime Minister Radev
The Czech news outlet ČT24 reports that Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev has stated that Bulgaria will not support a new package of EU sanctions against Russia. The announcement was made during parliamentary interpellations, where Radev argued that the sanctions would threaten Bulgaria’s national interests in energy. He specifically opposed including Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill and high-ranking managers from the Russian oil company Lukoil in the sanctions list. Radev emphasized that he is protecting Bulgaria’s national interests by maintaining communication with Lukoil. The European Commission had proposed the new sanctions package targeting Russian energy, trade, banks, and 'shadow fleet' activities, including a ban on fish imports from Russia and Belarus. However, there was no indication in the Commission’s proposal that the Patriarch Kirill would be sanctioned. The adoption of sanctions requires unanimous agreement within the EU, which has previously been blocked by countries like Hungary.
Iran will buy American food, says Trump.
The article discusses conflicting claims regarding Iran's potential purchase of American agricultural products as part of a peace deal under President Donald Trump. Trump stated during a CNBC interview that Iran would exclusively buy U.S. agricultural goods, including corn, wheat, and soybeans, as part of a broader agreement aimed at easing tensions and supporting American farmers. However, Tehran denied these claims, with Iranian Central Bank Governor Abdolnaser Hemmati stating there were no commitments for such purchases. The article also covers the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict, the impact of the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, and economic implications of the war. Additionally, it touches on Trump’s comments about the rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI), citing projections from Goldman Sachs about future investment levels. The piece further notes Trump’s continued efforts to remove Federal Reserve Board member Lisa Cook, despite a Supreme Court ruling limiting his authority to do so.
Lithuania wants to use all options to deter Russia, including nuclear.
The article discusses Lithuania's plans to remove a constitutional provision banning the placement of nuclear weapons on its territory, aiming to enhance deterrence against Russia. President Gitanas Nausėda stated during a press conference in Berlin after talks with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz that Lithuania wants to utilize all possible options for nuclear deterrence. The Lithuanian parliamentary parties agreed on a plan to amend the constitution to allow this. Nausėda emphasized that there are currently no plans to store nuclear weapons in Lithuania, but removing the constitutional ban would ensure the country is not bound if security conditions change in the future. He mentioned that the constitutional amendment could be completed by the end of the year. Lithuania, along with Estonia and Latvia, are NATO and EU members bordering Russia, which is a nuclear power engaged in a fifth-year war with Ukraine. Nuclear weapons are held by only Britain and France among European alliance countries. Chancellor Scholz invited Nausėda, Estonian Prime Minister Kristin Kask-Kaljas, and Latvian President Egils Levits to Berlin just days before the NATO summit, which will take place in Ankara.
Putin recognizes the oil map for the first time
Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged for the first time that Russia is building 'some oil reserves' during a meeting focused on energy issues. He emphasized the need to strengthen domestic oil production and increase output. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces continued their attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, detonating an oil purification plant in the southern Krasnodar region, which produces around four million tons of crude oil annually. The Krasnodar region is one of Russia's largest oil-producing areas located near the Black Sea. On Tuesday, Ukrainian forces launched large-scale air strikes on Sevastopol, the largest city on Crimea, including attacks on oil facilities. In response, Russia, which annexed Crimea in 2014, has restricted fuel sales to the public to counteract the energy shortages. According to reports, these attacks have had no impact on the front line. During an interview with a Russian state television station, Putin described the Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil infrastructure as an attempt to destabilize Russian society. He stated that Ukraine's goal was to halt the deployment of Russian military units to improve their position in arms control talks.
Overlooked
Under-reported & one-sided
EU imposes sanctions on six people it says had a role in Navalny's death
Artis Brno has accepted an offer from LFA and will play in the first league next season
The United States has informed the International Criminal Court that it does not recognize its jurisdiction
Soud v Bělorusku poslal do vězení novináře, který organizoval debaty s opozicí
Zelenskyj po sporu s Polskem: Nikdo nám nebude říkat, jaké hrdiny máme ctít
Five people have been arrested over the green lake at the Lincoln Memorial.
The Russian reality Alex Alex Shvamberk
The municipalities will get more money for affordable housing, but the subsidies will be lower.
