According to eyewitnesses, a lone gunman opened fire on Fico’s vehicle from a nearby building, striking the Prime Minister multiple times. Fico was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition, where he underwent emergency surgery. The assailant fled the scene and is currently being sought by police.

Interior Minister Robert Kaliňák stated that the shooting appears to be a targeted attack on the Prime Minister, and that authorities are investigating all possible motives, including political ones. Kaliňák also confirmed that Fico’s security detail returned fire during the incident, but it is unclear if the gunman was hit.

The Slovak parliament has been placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure, and a state of emergency has been declared in the capital region. All non-essential government business has been suspended while the investigation is ongoing.

Opposition leaders have condemned the attack and called for calm and unity during this difficult time. President Andrej Kiska has also expressed shock and outrage at the shooting, and has vowed to work with authorities to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.

This is a developing story, and more details will be provided as they become available. The thoughts and prayers of the Slovak people are with Prime Minister Fico and his family during this difficult time.