Slovak PM Fico Criticizes Rivals During Visit to Town Where He Was Shot, Reports Reuters

HANDLOVA, Slovakia (Reuters) – On Friday, Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico revisited the town where he was shot in May, accusing progressive opponents of escalating political tensions that could result in further violence.

Fico, 59, who has served as prime minister four times, was critically injured after being shot four times in the abdomen. The assailant has reportedly stated that his intent was to harm, rather than kill Fico, expressing disagreement with the Prime Minister’s policies. The shooter faces terrorism-related charges and could be sentenced to life in prison.

The assassination attempt in Handlova, which has a population of around 17,000, has heightened the already charged political atmosphere in Slovakia. Since taking power last year, Fico and his coalition, which includes leftist and far-right parties, have intensified their critiques of progressive factions.

During his return to Handlova for government business, Fico did not shy away from condemning his opponents. “Believe me, I have trauma, but not from the assassination attempt,” he told reporters when asked about the incident. “I am traumatized by the opposition and some of the media, at what they are doing. Because they are creating an atmosphere that can lead to a repeat of a similar story.”

He has labeled his assailant as an activist from the opposition. Fico’s administration has been actively reshaping state institutions, sparking significant criticism from opposition members and public protests, alongside warnings from the European Union concerning the rule of law and media freedom.

After taking office, Fico’s government halted military aid to Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia. Domestically, it has closed a special prosecutor’s office, revamped the public broadcasting service, and altered the cultural landscape by firing personnel in museums and theaters.

Fico has frequently criticized major Slovak news outlets and their reporting, opting instead to convey his message through social media videos. He has also expressed strong opposition to progressive ideologies.

Recently, the government disputed criticism from the European Commission regarding the rule of law, calling it misleading and alleging that some assessments were influenced by “anti-government” press.