In a shocking turn of events, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico was the target of an attempted assassination on Wednesday. The incident took place in the town of Handlova, where Fico was shot multiple times while greeting supporters after a government meeting. Following a five-hour operation, doctors have reported that Fico's condition is serious but stable.
The suspect, described as a 'lone wolf' by government authorities, was escorted by police to his home in Levice on Friday morning as part of a search for evidence. Media reports suggest that the suspect is a 71-year-old retiree with a background in amateur poetry and previous work as a security guard at a mall.
While the motive behind the attack is believed to be politically motivated, the suspect is not affiliated with any known political groups. The incident has raised concerns about social tensions in Slovakia, prompting the presidential office to organize a meeting of parliamentary leaders in an effort to address the situation.
Prime Minister Fico's return to power last year on a pro-Russian, anti-American platform has sparked controversy both domestically and internationally. His government's policies, including halting arms deliveries to Ukraine and proposed changes to public broadcasting and the penal system, have drawn criticism and led to widespread protests across the country.
Fico's critics fear that his leadership may steer Slovakia towards a more autocratic path, citing his past associations with individuals under police investigation for corruption and organized crime. The proposed overhaul of the penal system, which includes the elimination of the special prosecutor's office, has further fueled concerns about the concentration of power in the government.
As the investigation into the attempted assassination continues, Slovakia remains on edge, with tensions running high among supporters and opponents of Prime Minister Fico's administration. The outcome of this incident is likely to have far-reaching implications for the country's political landscape and future direction.
