Czech protesters demand new government, direct gas talks with Russia

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Thousands of Czechs demonstrated in Prague, calling on the center-right administration to resign so that an early election could be held and demanding negotiations with Russia on gas supplies before the winter.

The third protest which was organized by far-right political groupings, fringe organizations, and the Communist party took place on a national holiday in Prague's main square.

Wow. Absolutely massive protest in Prague, Czech Republic today demanding an end to anti-Russia sanctions. pic.twitter.com/GtjHWdEhl4

— sarah (@sahouraxo) October 28, 2022

The organizational group "Czech Republic First!" opposes both NATO and the European Union and calls for the 10.7 million-person country to be militarily neutral.

Resignation from NATO and the EU was demanded by protesters as they waved Czech flags and yelled "Resign, Resign" while carrying banners.

Read next: Protests in Czech Republic against military aid to Kiev

"This is a new national revival and its goal is for the Czech Republic to be independent," event organizer Ladislav Vrabel said. "When I see a full square, no one can stop this."

The conflict in Ukraine has driven up energy prices, putting pressure on governments across Europe to reduce the impact of rising energy costs for citizens and businesses.

Mass protests in the Czech Republic decry support for Ukraine pic.twitter.com/wgCoSpKFqC

— Samuel Ramani (@SamRamani2) September 3, 2022

Prime Minister Petr Fiala's government in the Czech Republic endorsed EU sanctions against Russia and adopted a harsh position regarding the military operation in Ukraine. Additionally, a number of policies have been passed, such as price controls on residential electricity and financial aid for businesses.

Read next: Hungary's stance on Russia could expel it from EU: Czech FM