Three weeks after Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico was critically injured in an assassination attempt, he has made a remarkable return to political life, preparing for the upcoming European Parliament elections. In a dramatic Facebook video from his home in Bratislava, Fico pointed fingers at Slovakia’s liberal opposition, the “anti-government media,” and foreign-funded NGOs for creating a climate of hatred that led to the shooting.
Robert Fico was shot multiple times in the abdomen on May 15 by a 71-year-old identified as Juraj C., who now faces a lengthy prison sentence for attempted murder. Despite the attack, Fico has forgiven his assailant, whom he described as an “activist of the Slovak opposition.” Fico characterized the shooter as a “messenger of political hatred” fueled by Slovakia’s “unsuccessful and frustrated” opposition groups.
Opposition parties, particularly the liberal Progressive Slovakia, have condemned the shooting and denied any connection to the attacker. This incident underscores the deepening polarization in Slovak society, especially as Fico’s populist-nationalist coalition remains a dominant force in the country’s political landscape.
Fico’s grip on power, spanning over a decade of leadership within the last 18 years, has seen Slovakia become increasingly polarized. The attack has only intensified these divisions. In his video, Fico appealed to the media, foreign-funded NGOs, and the opposition to acknowledge the climate of hatred that he claims led to the assassination attempt. He also criticized the collective West, accusing it of forcing a “single acceptable foreign policy,” particularly concerning Ukraine, and marginalizing smaller nations seeking sovereignty.
This tension comes amid widespread opposition to Fico’s policies, including his stance against military aid to Ukraine and his controversial position on Vladimir Putin's portrayal by the West. The backdrop for the shooting aligns with Fico’s assertion that Slovakia’s opposition has escalated to violent excesses to align with Western policies, leading to the attack.
Juraj C., the suspect, was arrested hours after the incident in Handlova. He cited opposition to Fico’s policies and the abolition of public broadcaster RTVS as his motivations. Videos of Juraj C. have shown his participation in anti-government demonstrations and meetings of a far-right Slovak paramilitary organization, adding to the ambiguity surrounding his political affiliations.
In his appearance, visibly recovered and in good spirits, Fico expressed a desire to return to his duties by the end of June. He reiterated his appeal to the media and international organizations to not downplay what he views as the reasons behind the assassination attempt.
The political climate in Slovakia remains volatile, with the European Parliament elections fast approaching. Fico’s return to the political arena and his strong accusations against the opposition have set the stage for a contentious electoral period. With Slovakia at a critical juncture, the outcomes could significantly influence the country’s future direction and its stance within the broader European and geopolitical context.
As tensions simmer, the implications of this assassination attempt are far-reaching. The link between polarized political views and violent acts highlights the urgent need for constructive dialogue and reconciliation. Slovakia’s trajectory will depend on how its leaders, parties, and citizens navigate these turbulent times amid rising political and social divisions.
