Attempted assassination of Slovakian leader Robert Fico: suspect ordered to remain in custody
A Slovakian court has ordered the suspect in the attempted assassination of former Prime Minister Robert Fico to remain in detention. Fico, who was shot multiple times, is in serious but stable condition, according to officials.
The Specialized Criminal Court in Slovakia decided to keep the suspect detained due to concerns that he might flee or commit further crimes if released. The suspect has the right to appeal this decision to the Supreme Court.
The incident occurred on Wednesday in Handlová, a town with a history of coal mining, where Fico, 59, was greeting supporters after a government meeting. The assailant fired five shots, striking Fico in the abdomen, before being subdued and arrested.
Authorities have withheld the suspect’s identity and other details, but media reports suggest he is a 71-year-old retiree, formerly a mall security guard, and known locally as an amateur poet. Despite these reports, officials confirmed that the attacker was not affiliated with any political groups, though the act itself was politically motivated.
The courthouse in Pezinok, near the capital Bratislava, was heavily guarded during the hearing, with police equipped in full tactical gear. Media access was restricted, and journalists were kept at a distance.
The moments after the attack on Robert Fico
Following the attack, Fico underwent a two-hour surgery on Friday to remove dead tissue from his gunshot wounds. Although his condition is improving, he remains unable to be transferred to a hospital in Bratislava. Defense Minister Robert Kalinak praised the medical team’s efforts, expressing deep gratitude for their work in stabilizing Fico’s condition.
Police have searched the suspect’s home in Levice, seizing a computer and documents. Authorities have not disclosed how the suspect acquired the firearm used in the attack, given Slovakia’s stringent gun laws. The country has one of the lowest rates of gun ownership in Europe, with strict requirements for obtaining firearms.
The attack on Fico has drawn widespread condemnation from international leaders, who have expressed support for both him and Slovakia.
Fico returned to power last year with a pro-Russia, anti-American agenda, raising concerns among EU and NATO allies about Slovakia’s future direction, especially regarding support for Ukraine. Under his leadership, Slovakia halted arms deliveries to Ukraine, diverging from its previous stance as a strong supporter following Russia’s invasion in February 2022.
Fico’s administration has also faced criticism for attempting to overhaul public broadcasting and the penal code, moves seen as efforts to consolidate power and diminish anti-corruption measures. These actions have sparked protests across Slovakia, with thousands rallying against his policies.
Robert Fico had recently warned of escalating tensions potentially leading to violence against politicians, attributing the rise in hostility to media influence. His tenure has been marked by numerous investigations and charges against his political and business associates.
Despite the turmoil, the Slovak government continues to function, with Kalinak temporarily overseeing operations until Fico’s health allows him to resume duties. The next government session is scheduled for Wednesday, with Kalinak set to lead in Fico’s absence.
