Slovakia in shock as suspect in PM’s shooting appears in court

Slovakia was left reeling after an attempted assassination on Prime Minister Robert Fico, with the suspect set to appear in court for a decision on pre-trial detention. The 71-year-old poet Juraj Cintula allegedly fired five shots at Fico, hitting him four times as he walked towards his supporters after a government meeting in Handlova.

Fico underwent extensive surgery and remains in intensive care, with his condition described as serious but stable. The shocking attack has sparked unity calls from political leaders, with outgoing President Zuzana Caputova and successor Peter Pellegrini urging Slovaks to avoid confrontation.

The incident has divided the country further, with some politicians already pointing fingers at their opponents for allegedly inciting the attack. Deputy Prime Minister Robert Kalinak, a close ally of Fico, criticized opposition politicians and the media for labeling Fico as a criminal or dictator before the shooting.

The attempted assassination has sent shockwaves through the EU and NATO member country, known for its political tensions in recent years. The upcoming court decision on Cintula’s pre-trial detention will be closely watched as Slovakia grapples with the aftermath of the attack.

Despite the turmoil, efforts are being made to show unity in the face of adversity, with a meeting of all parliamentary party leaders scheduled for Tuesday. The country is hoping to come together and move forward from this tragic event.