The Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico was shot during a public meeting in a mountainous central district of the country, with witnesses describing bloody injuries to his head and chest. The incident took place in the town of Handlova in the Trenčín Region, where Fico was meeting with members of the public at a local cultural center. The alleged gunman has been arrested, but there is no update on Fico’s condition from the Slovakian government.
Footage from the scene shows bodyguards rushing Fico to his limousine as police detain a suspect on the ground. Slovakian President Zuzana Čaputová has condemned the apparent attempted assassination, calling it brutal and expressing shock. The Slovakian parliament and government meetings have been suspended in light of the incident.
The shooting has sparked anger in Parliament, with members exchanging accusations and emotions running high. The Minister of Environment, Tomáš Taraba, placed blame on the opposition, accusing them of having blood on their hands. Fico, known for his economically left-wing populist views and strong stance on border control, has faced criticism for his opposition to mass migration and coronavirus lockdowns.
In addition, Fico’s stance on the war in Ukraine has drawn attention, with some labeling him as “pro-Putin.” Fico has denied these claims, stating he is anti-war rather than pro-Russian. He has also rejected calls for NATO to deploy troops to Ukraine. The situation is still developing, and updates are expected to follow.
