Slovak Prime Minister Fico Undergoes Rehabilitation After Assassination Attempt, Eyes China Visit

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is currently undergoing rehabilitation after surviving an assassination attempt on May 15. Officials have indicated that Fico may visit China in a month, marking a significant step in his recovery and return to international leadership.

Why this matters: The attempted assassination of Slovak Prime Minister Fico has significant implications for European politics and international diplomacy. His potential visit to China could influence discussions on Ukraine's EU accession and NATO membership, and his recovery could have far-reaching effects on both domestic and international politics.

The assassination attempt took place in the town of Handlová, central Slovakia, where Fico was shot four times at close range. The attacker, identified as 71-year-old writer Juraj Cintula, was apprehended at the scene and charged with attempted premeditated murder. Fico, 59, sustained severe injuries, including gunshot wounds to the abdomen, necessitating two major surgeries, one of which lasted over five hours.

Following the surgeries, Fico was transferred to a hospital in Banská Bystrica, where his condition was stabilized. On May 31, he was released from the hospital and taken to his apartment in Bratislava to continue his recovery. Officials have reported that Fico's health is improving, and he has begun rehabilitation.

The motive behind the assassination attempt is believed to be politically driven. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto attributed the attack to a hate campaign launched by liberal media and politicians against Fico. Szijjarto stated, "It was really a hate campaign. And it led to an assassination attempt. Five shots at a prime minister in Central Europe at the beginning of the 21st century. This is crazy."

Fico, who has served as prime minister of Slovakia from 2006 to 2010, 2012 to 2018, and again since October 2023, is known for his critical stance on the EU's policy towards Ukraine. He has opposed arms deliveries to the Ukrainian army and expressed pro-Russian views, which have made him a controversial figure in European politics.

Despite the severity of his injuries, Fico is eager to resume his duties. His potential visit to China could be seen as a move to reassert his leadership and engage in international diplomacy. The details of the visit remain unclear, but it signifies Fico's determination to continue his political career.

Fico's rehabilitation and the possible China visit come at a time when several significant international events are scheduled. These include the G7 Summit, the Ukraine Peace Summit, the European Council meeting, and the NATO summit. Fico's participation in these events could influence discussions on Ukraine's EU accession and NATO membership, areas where he has previously voiced strong opinions.

As Slovakia continues to wrestle with the implications of the assassination attempt, Fico's return to the political stage will be closely watched. His recovery and subsequent actions could have far-reaching effects on both domestic and international world politics.

Key Takeaways

• Slovak PM Robert Fico survives assassination attempt on May 15.
• Fico may visit China in a month, marking a significant step in his recovery.
• Attempted assassination has implications for European politics and international diplomacy.
• Fico's recovery could influence Ukraine's EU accession and NATO membership discussions.
• Fico's return to politics could have far-reaching effects on domestic and international politics.