Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico was the target of an assassination attempt on Wednesday, sparking shock and concern across the country. The 59-year-old leader was shot multiple times while greeting supporters in Handlova, leaving him in serious but stable condition after a lengthy surgery.
Authorities have arrested a suspect in connection with the attack, described as a “lone wolf” with no known political affiliations. The suspect, believed to be a 71-year-old retiree and amateur poet, was escorted by police to his home in Levice as part of a search for evidence. Media reports suggest he may have worked as a security guard at a mall in the past.
Fico’s return to power last year on a pro-Russian, anti-American platform has divided Slovakia and raised concerns among EU and NATO members about the country’s foreign policy direction. His government’s efforts to overhaul public broadcasting and amend the penal code have fueled protests and accusations of autocratic tendencies.
In response to the escalating tensions, Slovakia’s presidential office announced plans to convene a meeting of all parliamentary parties to address the situation. Outgoing President Zuzana Caputova and President-elect Peter Pellegrini hope to ease social tensions and promote dialogue among political leaders.
As the investigation into the assassination attempt continues, Slovakia remains on edge, with thousands of demonstrators taking to the streets to voice their concerns about the country’s future under Fico’s leadership.