Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico makes public appearance after assassination attempt

Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico, a divisive figure known for his populist and anti-Western stance, made his first public appearance outside the capital since surviving an assassination attempt. Fico, accompanied by Agriculture Minister Richard Takáč, visited a farm in Slovenska Nova Ves to inspect the grain harvest. Despite recovering from being shot in the abdomen during the attack in May, Fico expressed that Slovakia was not yet prepared to lift a ban on agricultural imports from Ukraine. He refrained from engaging with the media during this visit, which marked his official return to public duties following the incident. Fico's political trajectory has been marked by a pro-Russia and anti-American message, leading to concerns among critics that Slovakia may shift away from its pro-Western stance towards a more Hungary-aligned direction under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Fico's recent speech at a national holiday event saw him criticizing liberal ideologies and commending Orbán for his diplomatic engagements with Kyiv and Moscow. His decision to halt military aid to Ukraine, oppose EU sanctions on Russia, and block Ukraine's NATO membership further underscore his alignment with Orbán's policies, sparking protests across Slovakia against his government's direction. The assassination attempt on Fico, which occurred in Handlova, northeast of Bratislava, has raised questions about the political climate in Slovakia and the potential implications for its foreign relations. Fico's return to power for the fourth time last year through his party Smer's electoral victory has solidified his position as a polarizing figure within the country and beyond. The incident has highlighted the deep divisions within Slovakian society regarding Fico's leadership style and policy decisions, with ongoing demonstrations reflecting widespread discontent with his administration's direction. As Fico resumes his official duties and makes public appearances following the assassination attempt, the political landscape in Slovakia remains tense and uncertain. With ongoing debates over the country's foreign policy orientation, particularly in relation to Russia, Ukraine, and the EU, Fico's actions and statements continue to fuel controversy and opposition. The aftermath of the attack has brought to the forefront the challenges facing Slovakia under Fico's leadership, with implications for its domestic stability and international standing.