Fico delivers noteworthy initial address
Robert Fico, the prime minister of Slovakia, spoke to the public for the first time after an assassination attempt. In his video message, he initially showed leniency towards the would-be assassin. Fico then used this opportunity to deliver a scathing critique of the opposition.
Fico revealed in his statement that he plans to resume work by the end of next month. He described the incident as a "small miracle," referring to his narrow survival.
Fico took the first step towards forgiveness. "I have no hatred towards the stranger who shot at me," he said, adding that he wouldn't initiate any legal proceedings or seek compensation. Instead, he hoped the attacker would reflect on his motives.
The Prime Minister also used the video to target the Slovakian opposition and make serious accusations. According to Fico, the attacker was "just a messenger of evil and political hatred." He expects the opposition, government-hostile media, foreign-financed organizations, and political non-governmental organizations to downplay the incident. Fico is skeptical that it was the work of a single individual, as he believes it may be part of a larger conspiracy.
Before the attack, Fico had warned on Facebook that the growing tensions in Slovakia could lead to a political assassination. The Prime Minister blamed the media for fueling the tensions. Fico's reputation is controversial, as his government has taken steps to reform the public broadcaster. Some fear this would lead to complete government control. Fico's plans to revise the Criminal Code have also been criticized, with claims that he's pursuing an authoritarian agenda.
Fico has also faced criticism for being pro-Russian, which he denies. He previously opposed Ukrainian aid and now opposes the rejection of such aid. In his latest message, Fico spoke out against foreign pressure to continue the war in Ukraine.
Fico was shot in the abdomen in May. At a cultural center in Handlova, video recordings captured him approaching spectators behind barriers and attempting to shake hands. Then a man approached, extended his arm, and fired shots. Afterwards, the assailant claimed he had targeted Fico due to his refusal to provide more military support to Ukraine.
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Despite the attempted assassination in Slovakia, Fico remains opposed to providing more arms to Ukraine, echoing his previous stance. This position could potentially fuel tensions in the context of the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
Furthermore, Slovakia's history of wars and conflicts, including the assassination attempt on Fico, could expedite the delivery of arms to Ukraine as a strategic response, sparking debate within Slovakian politics and society.
