Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico was injured in a shooting incident on Wednesday and is currently hospitalized.
The incident occurred outside the House of Culture in Handlova, about 150 kilometers from the capital, while Fico was engaging with supporters.
He sustained a stomach injury after four shots were fired, according to reports by Slovakian TV station TA3. Authorities have apprehended a suspect and secured the area.
The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Lubos Blaha, confirmed the event during a parliamentary session, which was subsequently suspended indefinitely, as reported by Slovak TASR news agency.
President Zuzana Caputova condemned the attack as “brutal and ruthless” and expressed her shock, wishing Fico strength and a swift recovery.
A video from the scene depicted Fico being assisted into a limousine by his security team.
His condition was uncertain, with local hospital staff reporting that he had not yet been admitted. The Slovakian Parliament halted its activities in response to the attack.
European leaders expressed their dismay and extended their good wishes to Fico. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen denounced the attack as an affront to democracy and expressed solidarity with Fico and his family.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, calling Fico a friend and ally, offered prayers for his recovery. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk also conveyed his concern, emphasizing the shocking nature of the news.
