Russia suspected in Czech bus arson incident
Following the capture of a suspected terrorist in Prague, the Czech Republic alleged Russia's involvement in a failed arson attack. Prime Minister Petr Fiala expressed his belief that "it's not just possible, but highly likely that Russia is involved in this case," during a TV appearance following a meeting of the National Security Council.
This event occurred when a bus from the Prague Transport Company was targeted by an arson attack on a recent Thursday. Thankfully, the quick actions of the staff thwarted the plan. Fiala emphasized that "everything suggests this was orchestrated and funded from abroad."
He commended the secret services and police for their "exceptional and professional performance." The investigation continues.
Police identified the detained suspect, a 26-year-old foreign national, after a weekend-long manhunt. The court has ordered pre-trial detention for the man, who is being charged with a terrorist offense. If found guilty, he could face up to 20 years in prison. Earlier reports indicated that the suspect hails from South America.
The Czech Republic has been a strong supporter of Ukraine in its war against Russia's offensive. The country, along with other European Union and NATO members, is part of an initiative to acquire up to 800,000 artillery shells for Kiev from nations outside the EU. Germany is among the nations that have pledged a total of 1.6 billion euros to the project, as per information from the Czech government. In the past, the Czech Republic has delivered combat and infantry vehicles, multiple rocket launchers, attack helicopters, and ammunition to Ukraine.
