Authorities have charged an alleged gunman with the attempted murder of Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, following a shooting incident that shook the politically polarized nation.
Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok characterized the incident as the act of a “lone wolf” whose actions were intensified by dissatisfaction with the outcome of last month’s presidential elections, which saw the victory of Fico ally Peter Pellegrini.
Slovakia’s political landscape, divided between pro-Europeans and nationalist-leaning factions, has been marked by disinformation and verbal attacks on social media, influencing recent elections.
While Fico’s condition has stabilized, it remains “very serious,” according to Deputy Prime Minister Robert Kalinak. Surgeons worked tirelessly to save the leader, who was wounded during the shooting.
The suspected gunman, reported to be a 71-year-old writer, prompted shock and outrage across Banska Bystrica, where the assault occurred. Concerns have arisen over potential further radicalization and future attacks in Slovakia.
The attack comes amidst strained relations between Slovakia and neighboring Ukraine, exacerbated by Fico’s questioning of Ukraine’s sovereignty and Slovakia’s halt on weapon exports to Ukraine.
Critics have also voiced discontent with Fico’s policies, including changes to media laws perceived to undermine press impartiality. MP Lubos Blaha from Fico’s party criticized liberal media and progressive politicians, attributing blame for the attack to their supposed “hatred.”
