Earlier this evening, Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico was the target of an assassination attempt.
The incident occurred shortly after a government meeting near Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital. Fico was struck by five bullets and is currently in critical condition.
Following the shooting, Fico was immediately airlifted by helicopter to a hospital in Banská Bystrica. Authorities have confirmed that the Prime Minister is receiving intensive medical care.
Arrest of Suspect
A 71-year-old suspect has been arrested in connection with the attack.
Eyewitnesses reported that police swiftly apprehended a person at the scene and placed them in handcuffs.
The Slovakian Prime Minister is an ally of Putin, and the Russian President has already responded to the incident.
In a statement, Putin described the shooting as a “heinous act for which there is no excuse.”
Putin has previously lauded Fico as a strong character and ally, particularly due to Fico’s support for Russia in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
In a telegram to Slovakian President Zuzana Caputova, Putin wrote:
"I know Robert Fico as a brave and strong man. I hope that these qualities will help him survive this difficult situation."
Slovak Government's Response
Slovakia’s Deputy Prime Minister Tomas Taraba has provided an optimistic update on Fico’s condition. Speaking to BBC, Taraba mentioned that the operation went well and expressed his belief that Fico is not in immediate danger:
"As far as I know, the surgery was successful. And I believe that he will ultimately survive. He is not in a life-threatening situation as it stands now."
As of now, Prime Minister Robert Fico remains hospitalized in Banská Bystrica.
