EU elections overshadowed by assassination attempt as Slovaks and others head to the polls

Voters in Slovakia, Italy, and other European Union nations are participating in the European Parliament elections, with populist and far-right parties aiming to gain ground across the bloc. In Slovakia, the election has been overshadowed by an attempt to assassinate Prime Minister Robert Fico, sending shockwaves through the nation and Europe.

Fico, known for his pro-Russian and anti-American stance, was shot in the abdomen while greeting supporters, but has since recovered and addressed the nation in a prerecorded video. He criticized the European Union and blamed mainstream media, NGOs, and the liberal opposition for the assassination attempt.

In Italy, citizens are casting their ballots over two days to fill 76 European parliamentary seats. Premier Giorgia Meloni is expected to be a major winner, reflecting the growth of her far-right Brothers of Italy party. This could expand Meloni’s influence in the EU, potentially leading to a coalition with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Meanwhile, voters in Latvia, Malta, and the Czech Republic are also participating in the elections. Final results will be released on Sunday night, with the main voting day on Sunday across 20 European countries. In Slovakia, Fico’s Smer party is in a close race against the main opposition Progressive Slovakia party, with concerns about Fico’s autocratic tendencies and protests against his policies.

The outcome of these elections will shape the future of the European Parliament and the direction of the EU as a whole. Stay tuned for more updates on this crucial political event.