Robert Fico, Slovakia's prime minister, has made a triumphant comeback to the political scene just three weeks after surviving a shooting attack. He's back just in time for the European elections, and he's not holding back, pointing fingers at the liberal opposition, media he calls "anti-government," and foreign-funded NGOs for creating an atmosphere of hate that led to the attack.
In a heartfelt Facebook video filmed from his home in Bratislava, Fico forgives his attacker, a 71-year-old named Juraj C, but doesn't shy away from labeling him as an "activist of the Slovak opposition." He accuses the opposition of stoking political hatred, a sentiment echoed by Fico's supporters.
The opposition, especially the Progressive Slovakia party, denies any involvement in the attack and condemns it outright. Fico, a veteran in Slovak politics, has been in power for over a decade and recently returned to lead a populist-nationalist coalition. The shooting has only worsened the already tense political climate in Slovakia.
The suspect, described as a poet and author, claims his motive was opposition to Fico's policies, particularly the abolition of the public broadcaster RTVS. Yet, there's confusion over his political affiliations, with past videos showing him at far-right gatherings.
Fico, looking sharp in a white and blue shirt, aims to return to work by the end of June. He calls out the "anti-government media," especially those linked to George Soros, and foreign-funded NGOs, urging them not to downplay the reasons behind the assassination attempt.
He argues that the West's pressure for a uniform foreign policy, especially regarding Ukraine, has fueled tensions. Fico opposes military aid to Kyiv and defends Putin, believing he's unfairly demonized by Western powers.
Despite the ordeal, Fico expresses hope that his suffering will lead to positive change. He refrains from seeking revenge, instead focusing on the bigger picture and the future of Slovak politics.
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