Political Tensions Surge in Slovakia Following Attempted Assassination of Prime Minister

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who was shot in May, accuses progressive opponents of escalating political tensions that could lead to further violence. The gunman, facing terrorism charges, claimed he aimed to hurt not kill Fico. The incident has heightened political strife in the country, with Fico criticizing opposition and media.

Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico accused progressive opponents of fueling political tension, which he believes could lead to more violence, during a visit to Handlova where he was shot by a gunman in May.

The 59-year-old, who received four gunshots to his abdomen, was initially in critical condition. The attacker, now facing terrorism-related charges and life imprisonment, said he intended to harm, not kill Fico, according to court documents.

The assassination attempt has amplified political discord in Slovakia, with Fico and his coalition of leftist and far-right parties intensifying their criticism of progressive rivals. Fico returned to Handlova on government business for the first time since the incident, blaming the opposition and media for creating a hostile atmosphere.

Fico labeled his attacker an opposition activist and has criticized media coverage while preferring to share his message via social media. His government has faced criticism from the EU over rule of law and media freedom as it reshapes various state institutions and retracts military aid to Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies.)