BANSKA BYSTRICA, Slovakia — A government minister stated Slovak PM Robert Fico is no longer in critical condition. Fico was shot after leaving a government meeting.
The gunman shot Fico, 59, five times, initially leaving the prime minister in critical condition and undergoing surgery hours later on Wednesday evening.
“I was very shocked … fortunately as far as I know the operation went well – and I guess in the end he will survive … he’s not in a life-threatening situation at this moment,” Slovak Deputy Prime Minister and Environment Minister Tomas Taraba told the BBC’s Newshour.
Defence Minister Robert Kalinak told a news briefing hours earlier that Fico had suffered “serious polytrauma” after several shot wounds.
Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok had said earlier that Fico was in a life-threatening condition while he remained in the operating room.
“This assassination (attempt) was politically motivated and the perpetrator’s decision was born closely after the presidential election,” Sutaj Estok said, referring to an April election won by a Fico ally, Peter Pellegrini.
A 71-year-old man’s shooting in Handlova, central Slovakia, shocked the nation and drew international condemnation. Slovak media reported the incident.
The shooting incident involving Slovak PM Fico has sparked widespread concern and condemnation. However, the latest update provides some relief as Fico’s condition stabilizes. Moreover, authorities are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting to ensure justice prevails.
The resilience displayed by Slovak PM Fico amidst adversity is commendable. This incident underscores the importance of ensuring the safety and security of public figures.
Furthermore, it serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with holding positions of leadership.
read more
image source
