Slovak 

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico was critically injured after being shot multiple times following a cabinet meeting, prompting widespread condemnation from European leaders. Police have detained the suspected gunman as Fico undergoes urgent medical treatment.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico was shot multiple times on Wednesday after a cabinet meeting in Handlova, officials reported. The attack, which left Fico with life-threatening injuries, has been condemned by European Union leaders.

The Slovak government confirmed the assassination attempt in a social media post, stating that Fico is currently being transported by helicopter to Banska Bystrica for urgent medical intervention. The decision to transport him to Banska Bystrica was made because the journey to Bratislava would take too long given his critical condition.

Police spokesman Matej Neumann confirmed the attack, while Handlova local hospital director Marta Eckhardtova noted that Fico was treated at their vascular surgery clinic but did not provide details about his injuries.

Witnesses reported hearing several shots before security guards rushed Fico into a car. According to the newspaper Dennik N, police have detained the suspected gunman.

Slovak President Zuzana Caputova expressed her shock and condemned the attack. "I wish him a lot of strength in this critical moment and early recovery," she said on X, formerly Twitter. Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk also expressed their concerns and wished Fico a speedy recovery.

Robert Fico, a populist leader with pro-Kremlin views, has been prime minister since last year. He previously served as prime minister from 2006 to 2010 and from 2012 to 2018. Since his election last October, Fico has made several controversial remarks, particularly about Ukraine, and has introduced changes that critics say undermine media impartiality.

At a press conference following the shooting, Lubos Blaha, an MP from Fico's Smer party, blamed liberal media and progressive politicians for inciting hatred against Fico.

The investigation into the attack is ongoing.