Russian President Vladimir Putin has denounced the shooting of Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, labeling it a “heinous crime” and expressing hopes for Fico’s swift recovery. The incident unfolded on Wednesday as Fico, aged 59, was leaving a government meeting in Handlova, Slovakia.
Slovakia’s Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok revealed that the assassination attempt was politically motivated, with the assailant firing five shots at the prime minister, critically injuring him.
Fico, described as a courageous and strong-spirited leader by Putin, was rushed to Handlova hospital and later airlifted to Banska Bystrica for urgent medical attention. Despite hours of surgery, Fico remained in critical condition, with officials stating he was “fighting for his life.”
The attack has sent shockwaves across Slovakia and drawn condemnation from international leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden and EU counterparts. The assailant, identified as a former security guard and member of the Slovak Society of Writers, shocked his own family, who expressed bewilderment over his actions. Investigations into the incident are ongoing, with authorities highlighting its unprecedented nature in Slovakia, a nation rarely experiencing political violence.
As the nation awaits further updates on Fico’s condition, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of political stability and security in the region.
