Assassination Attempt on Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico: Latest Updates

Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico is currently fighting for his life after surviving an assassination attempt that left him critically injured. The 59-year-old leader was shot in the stomach outside the House of Culture in Handlova while meeting with supporters.

Slovakia’s president-elect, Peter Pellegrini, described Fico’s condition as “critical” and stated that he is facing the worst hours of his life. If the bullets had hit just a few millimeters in either direction, Fico would not have survived.

The suspect, identified as 71-year-old Juraj Cintula, has been charged with attempted murder and could face up to 25 years in prison. Cintula, believed to be a former security guard and poet, is said to have attended anti-government protests and expressed disagreements with Fico’s policies on social media.

Fico, known for his close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin, is a controversial figure in Slovak politics. The assassination attempt comes just three weeks before the European Union Parliament elections, adding further tension to the political landscape.

Leaders from around the world have condemned the attack, with President Joe Biden offering U.S. Embassy assistance to the Slovak government. The Nato secretary general, Jens Stoltenberg, also expressed shock and wished Fico a speedy recovery.

As the investigation unfolds, the people of Slovakia are left in shock and disbelief at the brazen attack on their prime minister. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.