Slovakia’s Prime Minister, Robert Fico, remains in serious condition following an assassination attempt in which he was shot multiple times. The Defense Minister, Robert Kalinak, stated that while Fico’s condition is serious, he has a positive prognosis and is stable. The hospital in Banská Bystrica will continue to provide updates on his health status. Kalinak also mentioned that there may have been a “third party” involved in the attack, suggesting a wider conspiracy than initially believed.
Milan Urbáni, deputy director of the hospital, confirmed that Fico is currently out of a life-threatening condition but remains in serious condition and will require a lengthy period of rest to recover. Fico, 59, was shot in the abdomen while greeting supporters in Handlova, and underwent surgery to remove dead tissue from his gunshot wounds. The suspected assailant, charged with attempted murder, has been ordered to remain in custody as prosecutors fear he may flee or commit other crimes if released.
Little information has been revealed about the attacker, with reports indicating he may be a retiree known as an amateur poet. The attack is believed to be politically motivated, although the suspect was not affiliated with any known political groups. Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok described the attack as an assault on democracy and emphasized the need for security forces to protect the country’s population.
Fico had previously raised concerns about rising tensions and the potential for violence against politicians in Slovakia. His government has faced criticism for its attempts to control public broadcasting and overhaul the penal system, which opponents fear could lead to increased autocracy. The coalition government is expected to discuss media laws and journalistic ethics in the wake of the assassination attempt.
Churchgoers and citizens in Banská Bystrica expressed mixed feelings about the attack, with some viewing it as a tragedy and others questioning Fico’s actions as contributing to the country’s current state of affairs. The incident has prompted calls for reflection and a reevaluation of the political climate in Slovakia. Despite the shock of the assassination attempt, leaders are urging for calm and a return to what is considered standard in the country.
