Slovakia Prime Minister Robert Fico in Critical Condition After Sustaining Multiple Gunshot Wounds

Slovakia’s Prime Minister, Robert Fico, is fighting for his life after being shot multiple times in an apparent assassination attempt. The attack occurred after a meeting at a cultural center in Handlova, about 85 miles from the capital Bratislava. Fico was airlifted to a hospital and is currently undergoing surgery, with the coming hours being critical for his recovery.

The suspect, a 71-year-old man, was detained at the scene after firing five shots at the prime minister. Slovakia’s government has described the attack as having a “clear political motivation.” Witnesses reported that the gunman used a friendly nickname to call out to Fico before the shooting.

Fico, a polarizing figure in Slovak politics, has been in the political scene for decades and has faced criticism for his sympathetic stance towards Russian President Vladimir Putin and his views on LGBTQ rights. He won elections last year after campaigning on a pro-Russian and anti-American message.

World leaders, including Vladimir Putin and Joe Biden, have condemned the attack, with European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen calling it a “vile attack.” German leader Olaf Scholz expressed shock at the assassination attempt and emphasized that violence has no place in European politics.

As Fico undergoes surgery and his condition remains critical, the international community is closely monitoring the situation and offering support to Slovakia during this challenging time.