Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico was taken to a hospital after he was shot and seriously wounded in an attack on Wednesday north of the capital, Bratislava in what the government called an assassination attempt.
A suspect was detained at the scene, according to Slovakia’s president.
A post on the prime minister’s official Facebook page said that Mr. Fico was in “life-threatening condition” after sustaining “multiple” gunshot wounds.
“The next few hours will decide,” the post said.
The exact nature of his injuries was not immediately known. The attack drew shock and condemnation from Slovak and European officials.
“We condemn this horrific act of violence,” US President Joe Biden said in a statement. “Our embassy is in close touch with the government of Slovakia and ready to assist.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the incident was a “vile attack” on Fico.
”Shocked by the shooting of Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico. I wish him a swift and complete recovery,” wrote Romanian President Klaus Iohannis on X.
”I am deeply shocked by the news from Slovakia…..There is no justification for such extremist attacks and the perpetrators must be made responsible,” said Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu on X.
Mr. Fico, 59, has aligned with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, in opposing aid to Ukraine and challenging mainstream opinions within the European Union.
Mr. Orban said: “We pray for his health and quick recovery,” in a message on social media.
Mr. Fico returned to power after September general elections, returning after quitting amid large street protests following the killing of an investigative journalist who had been looking into government corruption.
In October, the Slovak premier said he was halting all military aid to Ukraine.
Mr. Fico held a government meeting in Handlova and then a press conference. He was shot outside the venue while greeting supporters, local media reported.
„I totally condemn this assassination attempt…Such violent attacks have no place in a democracy,” wrote Senate speaker Nicolae Ciucă on X.
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