The trial concerning the assassination attempt on Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is scheduled to begin on July 8 at a branch of the Specialized Criminal Court in the city of Banská Bystrica, according to news agency TASR, citing a court representative.
The attack on the Slovak head of government occurred on May 15, 2024, following an off-site cabinet meeting. Fico, known for his criticism of arms supplies to Ukraine and the country’s aspirations to join NATO, sustained multiple gunshot wounds. The attacker — 71-year-old Juraj Cintula — was apprehended at the scene.
According to the Ministry of the Interior, Cintula’s motives were political in nature — he opposed the government’s policies, including the halt of military support to Ukraine. The case, initially classified as an attempted murder, was later reclassified as a terrorist act. Cintula remains in custody awaiting trial and could face a life sentence if convicted.
Prime Minister Fico was discharged from the hospital in late May and continued his recovery at home. He resumed his official duties in July 2024.
