**Czech Republic Extends Protection for Ukrainian Refugees**
The Czech President, Petr Pavel, has signed a new law that extends the protection period for Ukrainian refugees. This change was announced on February 6 by the Czech news site, České Noviny.
**What does this mean?**
Under the new law, Ukrainian refugees will have their temporary protection extended for another year. This status allows them to access public healthcare, education, and employment opportunities in the Czech Republic. The previous protection period was set to expire in March.
**New Rules for Russian Applicants**
The amended law also makes it harder for Russian nationals to get citizenship in the Czech Republic. Now, they must renounce their Russian citizenship before being considered for a long-term residence permit. This is part of a wider effort by the Czech government to show its support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.
**Other Changes**
The new law also introduces a pathway for Ukrainian refugees who have lived in the Czech Republic for over two years to get long-term residence permits. To be eligible, they must be financially independent and have stable housing. Children must also be enrolled in a Czech school.
Additionally, the law makes unauthorized activities conducted in favor of a foreign state a crime. The penalties for this can range from up to five years in peacetime to 15 years during martial law.
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