By The Smartencyclopedia Staff & Agencies
Bratislava, Slovakia — Slovakia’s populist Prime Minister Robert Fico was injured in a shooting on Wednesday, according to media reports. The incident occurred in the town of Handlova, approximately 90 miles northeast of the capital, as reported by the news television station TA3. Authorities have detained a suspect, and the Interior Ministry has labeled the incident an assassination attempt, as confirmed by CBS News’ partner network BBC News.
During a session of parliament, Deputy Speaker Lubos Blaha confirmed the shooting and subsequently adjourned the legislature until further notice, according to the Slovak TASR news agency.
Details of the Incident
The shooting took place in front of the local House of Culture, where Prime Minister Fico was scheduled to meet supporters. Police have since cordoned off the area, and photographs from the scene show at least one man being taken into custody.
Witnesses reported hearing four shots, according to the BBC. Local media outlets indicated that Fico was struck in the abdomen, though the severity of his injuries has not been disclosed. A reporter for the daily newspaper Dennik N witnessed the shooting and saw rescuers carrying the injured premier to a car.
Fico’s Political Background
Robert Fico, who has served as Slovakia’s prime minister for a cumulative total of about 10 years over three terms, recently staged a political comeback. His leftist Smer, or Direction, party won the September 30 parliamentary elections, securing his return to the nation’s top political position. Fico’s recent campaign was marked by a pro-Russian and anti-American stance, raising concerns among critics about Slovakia potentially shifting away from its pro-Western orientation, similar to the direction taken by Hungary under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.
Thousands of Slovaks have frequently protested against Fico’s policies, demonstrating their opposition in the capital and across the country.
Reaction and Condemnation
Slovak President Zuzana Caputova strongly condemned the attack, calling it “a brutal and ruthless” act against the prime minister.
“I’m shocked,” President Caputova said. “I wish Robert Fico a lot of strength in this critical moment and a quick recovery from this attack.”
As the nation grapples with this shocking event, the political and social ramifications are yet to unfold. The immediate focus remains on Fico’s recovery and the investigation into the motives and circumstances surrounding the assassination attempt.