In Bratislava, Slovakia, prosecutors announced on Monday that a suspect involved in the attempted assassination of Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico last year has been charged with terrorism.
Prime Minister Fico, known for his contentious pro-Russia views, sustained injuries in the abdomen during a May 15 incident in Handlova, where he was engaging with supporters. Despite suffering multiple wounds, Fico has since recuperated.
Authorities identified the alleged attacker as J.C., who was apprehended immediately following the shooting. The police concluded their investigation last month and forwarded their recommendation for J.C. to face trial. The exact date for the trial remains unconfirmed.
The charge against J.C. was initially attempted murder, but in July, prosecutors elevated the accusation to terrorism, citing new evidence acquired during the investigation. Details regarding this evidence have not been disclosed.
At the time, government representatives suggested that the act was politically driven, committed by an isolated individual, though they speculated that an external entity might have supported the effort.
Across Slovakia, significant demonstrations have been held opposing Fico’s stance on Russia and other policy measures.
Fico has reclaimed the prime minister role for the fourth time after his party, the left-wing Smer, won the parliamentary elections in 2023.
