Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has survived a politically motivated assassination attempt, according to Deputy Prime Minister Tomas Taraba. Fico, 59, underwent surgery following the attack in the town of Handlova, where he was gravely injured.
The shooting occurred outside a cultural center where Fico was meeting with supporters. Footage shows the prime minister being carried away by security officers after the gunman fired five shots at close range, hitting Fico in the stomach and arm.
Despite initial reports suggesting Fico was fighting for his life, Taraba has confirmed that the surgery went well and Fico is no longer in a life-threatening condition.
The alleged suspect, reportedly a 71-year-old writer and political activist, was detained at the scene. However, police have not officially identified him.
The attack comes amidst growing tensions in Slovakia, with thousands protesting against government proposals to reform the public broadcaster RTVS. Taraba blamed “false narratives” by opposition parties for stoking hatred, echoing Fico’s past warnings about the potential consequences of such rhetoric.
Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estoka described the shooting as politically motivated and accused the media of contributing to the hostile climate. Outgoing President Zuzana Caputova condemned the attack, linking it to the “hateful rhetoric” prevalent in society.
Fico, who returned to power last September, has faced controversy both domestically and within the EU for his policies, including halting military aid to Ukraine and plans to abolish RTVS.
As Slovakia grapples with the aftermath of this assassination attempt, questions arise about the impact of political polarization on democratic institutions and the safety of public figures.