Robert Fico shot: Slovakian PM in life-threatening condition after 'assassination attempt'

Robert Fico was shot during a visit to the town of Handlova
Robert Fico was shot during a visit to the town of Handlova -Credit:X


Slovakia's populist prime minister Robert Fico is in a life-threatening condition in hospital after being shot multiple times.

The incident took place in the town of Handlova, some 150 kilometres north east of the capital Bratislava, according to the news television station TA3.

A suspect has been detained, it said. President Zuzana Caputova condemned "a brutal and ruthless" attack on the premier.

"I'm shocked," Ms Caputova said. "I wish Robert Fico a lot of strength in this critical moment and a quick recovery from this attack."

Deputy speaker of parliament Lubos Blaha confirmed the incident during a session of Parliament and adjourned it until further notice, the Slovak TASR news agency said.

The incident took place in front of the local House of Culture, where Mr Fico came to meet with supporters. Police sealed off the scene.

A reporter for the daily newspaper Dennik N daily heard shooting and then saw rescuers carrying the premier to a car.

Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico has been rushed to hospital.
Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico has been rushed to hospital. -Credit:Getty

Rishi Sunak said he was "shocked" by the "awful news" that his Slovakian counterpart had been shot.

The Prime Minister said on X, formerly Twitter: "Shocked to hear this awful news. All our thoughts are with Prime Minister Fico and his family."

Mr Fico became prime minister for the third time after his party won Slovakia's September 30 parliamentary elections, staging a political comeback after campaigning on a pro-Russian and anti-American message.

European Council president Charles Michel said: "I am shocked at the news of the attack on Slovakian PM Fico after a meeting of the Slovak cabinet in Handlova.

"Nothing can ever justify violence or such attacks. My thoughts are with the prime minister and his family."

Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond. Sign up to our daily newsletter .