DLNews World at War:

Breaking News: Assassination Attempt on Slovak Prime Minister

In a shocking turn of events, the world is again reminded of the volatile nature of our times, echoing the tensions that sparked the First World War. Today, the small town of Handlová, Slovakia, became the epicenter of chaos and fear as Prime Minister Robert Fico (59) narrowly escaped death in a brazen daylight shooting.

Robert Fico is the head of the government of Slovakia and is considered a left-wing populist.

The drama unfolded on Wednesday afternoon as Fico emerged from a government meeting at the House of Culture. Amidst the cheers of supporters, the air was suddenly pierced by the sound of gunfire. Bodyguards, acting instinctually, rushed to shield the injured Prime Minister, carrying him swiftly to a waiting black Audi A8. Mere seconds later, the car sped away, leaving a scene of panic and confusion in its wake.

Robert Fico is the head of government of Slovakia and is considered a left-wing populist.

Reports indicate that Fico was responsive upon arrival at the hospital, a small ray of hope in an otherwise dire situation. He was urgently flown to Banská Bystrica, bypassing Bratislava due to the critical nature of his injuries. The government has confirmed that his life hangs in the balance, with the next few hours being crucial.

Security forces brought the shot Fico into a black Audi.

Eyewitness accounts paint a chilling picture of the attack. An older man, who had been moments away from shaking Fico's hand, recounted the horror: “I heard the shots and saw him fall. It all happened so fast.” Another witness described the loud sound of the gunfire and the sight of Fico collapsing with blood staining his chest and head. According to some reports, he sustained gunshot wounds to the stomach and arm, necessitating immediate surgery.

The suspect, reportedly a 71-year-old man, was quickly apprehended. However, his motives remain mysterious, adding another unease to an already tense situation.

THIS is the suspect
A suspect is said to have been arrested after the attack. Nothing is yet known about the perpetrator's motives. According to unconfirmed reports, it is said to be a 71-year-old man named Juraj C. He is said to have been a poet who, among other things, founded a literature club in the past.

The assassination attempt has sent shockwaves through Slovakia and beyond. President Zuzana Čaputová expressed her horror and wished Fico strength in his fight for recovery. EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen condemned the attack in the strongest terms, calling it “abhorrent” and a direct assault on the very foundations of democracy.

As the world watches with bated breath, Slovakia stands on the brink, with its leader's life and the nation's stability hanging in the balance. The echoes of history are unmistakable, a stark reminder of the fragility of peace in a world fraught with turmoil.