Czech Republic Pushes EU Council to Suspend Emissions Trading System Ahead of March 19-20 Summit

The Czech government announced it will back Italy's proposal at the March 19-20 European Council to suspend the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS 1) covering energy, heavy industry, and air transport. The push reflects Central European resistance to EU climate policy timelines. Separately, March polling shows ANO at 31.5% with no credible challenger; the Motoristé party recovered to 7.1% after a dip linked to its confrontation with President Pavel.