Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is currently in a stable but serious condition after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds on Wednesday, according to doctors. Deputy Prime Minister Robert Kalinak described Fico’s injuries as complex. The incident occurred in the small town of Handlova, where Fico was attending a meeting.
Initially, Fico, aged 59, was reported to be in critical condition, but doctors managed to stabilize him during the night. Despite this, his condition remains serious due to the severity of his injuries. Deputy Prime Minister Tomas Taraba stated that Fico’s surgery went well and expressed optimism about his survival.
The shooting, which occurred at close range, took Fico’s security personnel by surprise. Footage shows Fico being rushed away from the scene by officers immediately after the attack. While the alleged suspect has been detained, police have not yet released his identity. Unconfirmed reports suggest he may be a 71-year-old writer and political activist.
The motive behind the shooting is still under investigation, although Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estoka has labeled it a politically motivated assassination attempt. Fico’s divisive political stance, particularly regarding military aid to Ukraine and sanctions on Russia, has sparked controversy both domestically and within the EU.
The incident has elicited condemnation from various quarters, with many describing it as an attack on democracy. Outgoing President Zuzana Caputova emphasized the detrimental effects of hateful rhetoric in society, linking it to violent acts like this.
The government and state security council are set to convene to address the aftermath of the assassination attempt, underscoring the gravity of the situation in Slovakia.
