PRAGUE — Czech law enforcement authorities have apprehended a foreign citizen who voluntarily surrendered and confessed to orchestrating a Molotov cocktail assault against the Russian House cultural center in Prague. The suspect, whose identity and nationality remain undisclosed by police, turned himself in on Monday.
According to official statements, the individual admitted to planning the attack since summer 2023. The incident occurred last Thursday evening when multiple incendiary devices were launched at the Russian-state-funded facility. While photographic evidence shows significant window damage and smoke residue on the building’s exterior, the structure avoided catching fire.
Igor Girenko, director of the cultural center, provided details to Russian state media, indicating that six Molotov cocktails were deployed during the attack, with three failing to detonate. The center, which organizes cultural, educational, and scientific programs while offering Russian language courses, does not hold diplomatic status despite its Russian government funding.
The incident has triggered diplomatic responses from both nations. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova characterized the assault as “barbaric,” while Russia’s embassy in Prague formally requested enhanced security measures for Russian institutions and personnel within the Czech Republic. The Czech Foreign Ministry has simultaneously issued condemnation of the violent act.
Investigation into the motives and precise circumstances surrounding the attack continues as authorities process evidence and evaluate potential security implications.