Slovakia's Former Prime Minister Robert Fico's Health Improves After Assassination Attempt

Former Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, 59, is showing signs of recovery after being critically injured in an assassination attempt on May 15 in the central Slovak town of Handlova. Fico was shot four times at close range while greeting supporters, resulting in serious abdominal injuries.

Following the attack, Fico was rushed to F.D. Roosevelt University Hospital in Banska Bystrica, where he underwent two surgeries, including a five-hour operation. The hospital has been providing daily updates on his health, confirming gradual improvement. On Monday, a medical board meeting endorsed this positive trend.

The attacker, identified as 71-year-old Juraj C., was immediately detained at the scene and has been charged with premeditated murder. Juraj C. claimed in court that he intended to hurt, not kill, Fico because of disagreements with government policies. He used a gun he had owned for over 30 years.

This incident highlights the deep political divisions within Slovak society and has significant implications for the country's future stability and unity. The government's response and the broader community reaction will be critical in determining the country's future stability and unity.

This incident marks the first significant assassination attempt on a European political leader in over two decades, highlighting deep political divisions within Slovak society. Fico, a populist leader, has been a polarizing figure, facing mass protests against his leadership and criticism for his opposition to Western sanctions on Moscow.

Fico's political career has been marked by controversy. He served as Prime Minister from 2006 to 2010, then again from 2012 to 2018, and returned to power in 2023. His tenure has been characterized by a shift from pro-Western values to growing sympathies with Russia, which has further divided the Slovak populace.

Interior Minister Matúš Šutaj Eštok emphasized the political motivations behind the attack, stating, 'The country is on the edge of a civil war as a result of the rhetoric on social media.' However, this assertion has been criticized as hyperbolic, with experts like Matej Kandrík, co-founder of Adapt Institute, arguing, 'It's both irresponsible and dangerous. Slovakia is nowhere close to a civil war.'

The assassination attempt on Fico has drawn widespread condemnation from global leaders. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg expressed his shock, stating, 'Shocked and appalled by the shooting of Prime Minister Robert Fico. I wish him strength for a speedy recovery. My thoughts are with Robert Fico, his loved ones, and the people of Slovakia.'

As Fico continues his recovery, the incident highlights the deep-seated political and social divisions within Slovakia. The government's response and the broader community reaction will be critical in determining the country's future stability and unity.

Key Takeaways

• Former Slovak PM Robert Fico, 59, survives assassination attempt with 4 gunshot wounds.
• Fico undergoes 2 surgeries, shows gradual improvement in health.
• 71-year-old attacker, Juraj C., charged with premeditated murder, citing gov't policy disagreements.
• Incident highlights deep political divisions in Slovakia, sparks global condemnation.
• Fico's recovery and gov't response will determine country's future stability and unity.