Hungarian Foreign Minister Sijjarto Blames 'Hate Campaign' for Assassination Attempt on Slovak PM Fico

On May 15, 2024, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico was shot multiple times outside the House of Culture in Handlova, Slovakia. The 59-year-old prime minister was meeting with supporters when a lone gunman fired five shots, hitting Fico in the stomach. He was rushed to a local hospital before being airlifted to Banská Bystrica hospital for emergency surgery.

Initially, Fico's condition was critical. Slovak President-elect Peter Pellegrini stated that Fico was 'living the worst hours and days of his life.' Deputy Prime Minister Tomas Taraba later announced that the operation had been successful and that Fico was no longer in a life-threatening situation.

The suspected shooter, identified as 71-year-old Juraj Cintula, was detained at the scene and charged with attempted murder. Cintula, a former security guard and poet, had reportedly attended anti-government protests and expressed disagreements with Fico's policies on social media. Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok confirmed that the attack was politically motivated.

Why this matters: The assassination attempt on Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico highlights the growing political tensions and polarization in Europe, with potential implications for regional stability and cooperation. If left unchecked, such incidents could escalate into larger conflicts, undermining democratic institutions and threatening global security.

International leaders quickly condemned the attack. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated, 'Such acts of violence have no place in our society and undermine democracy, our most precious common good.' German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and U.S. President Joe Biden echoed these sentiments, with Biden offering assistance to the Slovak government.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Sijjarto attributed the assassination attempt to a 'hate campaign' by Fico's political opponents. Though he did not provide specific details, Sijjarto's statement highlights the intense political climate surrounding Fico, a divisive figure known for his populist stances and close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Fico has been a vocal critic of military support for Ukraine and has opposed sanctions against Russia. His government has faced accusations of eroding democratic institutions and has sparked protests with various policy decisions. The attack on Fico occurred just three weeks before the European Union Parliament elections, adding to the political tensions.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic and terrifying. Lubica Valkovas, 66, said, 'I think it is a nightmare. I'll tell you, I think I will not wake up from this.' The quick response from emergency services and law enforcement helped prevent further casualties.

As Fico recovers, the political situation in Slovakia remains fraught with tension. The assassination attempt highlights the volatile nature of current political discourse and the potential for violence in an increasingly polarized environment.

Key Takeaways

• Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico shot multiple times outside House of Culture in Handlova.
• Fico, 59, underwent emergency surgery and is no longer in life-threatening condition.
• Suspected shooter, 71-year-old Juraj Cintula, detained and charged with attempted murder.
• Attack deemed politically motivated, highlighting growing tensions and polarization in Europe.
• International leaders condemn attack, offering assistance to Slovak government.