The Party of European Socialists today condemns the terrible and shocking attack on Prime Minister of Slovakia Robert Fico.
Prime Minister Fico was shot in the town of Handlova, Slovakia, as he met people outside the House of Culture, where the government was meeting. He is currently undergoing treatment in hospital. His condition is described as life-threatening. The suspected gunman has been detained by police.
PES President Stefan Löfven said:
“This is a truly shocking attack. Our thoughts are with Prime Minister Fico and his family at what must be a very difficult time.
“This is a very dark day for our Union. To target a prime minister, or indeed any politician, in this way is an attack on democracy itself.
“There can never be any justification for this violence. Today I am hoping for Robert Fico’s recovery, for unity in Slovakia against this brutality, and for the strengthening of democracy so we always solve our differences with dialogue and never bloodshed.”
PES Secretary General Giacomo Filibeck said:
“We send our solidarity to the members of Smer-SD and its community. Violence is never the answer. To be attacked whilst out meeting the public is horrific. Today we stand with Robert Fico against the violence he has been the victim of.”
