Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico Shot in Politically Motivated Attack
BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) — Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico was shot multiple times after a political event Wednesday afternoon, in an episode of violence that has shocked the nation. Fico, 59, is currently in serious but stable condition after undergoing a five-hour surgery at a hospital in Slovakia.
Authorities have charged a man with attempting to assassinate the populist prime minister, stating that the suspect acted alone in a politically motivated attack. Fico, who has been a prominent figure in Slovak politics for decades, has served as prime minister twice before and is currently in his fourth term.
Fico’s political career has been marked by controversy, with his party, Smer (Direction), often described as left-populist. He has been known for his strong stance against migration, LGBTQ+ rights, and his pro-Russian policies. His return to power last year sparked protests across Slovakia, with many fearing that he would lead the country away from its pro-Western course.
In 2018, Fico and his government resigned amid mass protests following the murder of investigative journalist Ján Kuciak, who had been reporting on tax-related crimes involving high-level politicians, including some in Fico’s party. The murder of Kuciak and his fiancée set off a political crisis in Slovakia.
Fico’s shooting has once again brought attention to the political tensions in the country, with many questioning the motives behind the attack. As Fico recovers in the hospital, the nation waits to see what the future holds for its long-serving prime minister.