Prime Minister Robert Fico of Slovakia underwent an additional surgery following an assassination attempt, leaving the country in a state of uncertainty. The suspect in the attack was identified by authorities as Juraj C., a reported “lone wolf” radicalized after the country’s recent presidential election. The suspect was under investigation, with reports of police searching his home and seizing documents. A motion was filed to keep the suspect in custody for a longer period as he faced preliminary hearings on charges of attempted premeditated murder.
Fico remained in serious but stable condition after the surgery, with updates provided by officials being scarce. The possibility of moving him to Bratislava from the current hospital was being considered, although it was early to give any confirmation. Deputy Prime Minister Robert Kalinak expressed confidence in the medical team caring for Fico. The government continued to function, although it was unclear who was making high-level decisions in the Prime Minister’s absence, with Kalinak leading meetings as per reports.
Investigations into the assassination attempt focused on both the attacker and the security forces’ response during the incident. There were concerns over the actions of officers in subduing the gunman and the potential implications of the attack amid political divisions in the country. Fico’s government had faced criticism over planned judiciary reforms and reshaping of the national broadcasting system. Senior officials in the ruling party insinuated that liberal journalists and opposition politicians were behind the attack, while calls for calm were made by others.
Speculation regarding the attacker’s identity and motivations prompted warnings against spreading unverified information by the Interior Ministry. Concerns arose about the impact of the attack on society and political polarization. The country was divided over the incident, reflecting the existing tensions and fears of further division. Citizens expressed hope for sensibility among the people and leadership to avoid panic and further conflict. The ongoing investigations and recovery process of Prime Minister Fico added to the uncertainty surrounding the situation in Slovakia.
