A 72-year-old pensioner, Juraj Cintula, has been handed a 21-year prison sentence for the attempted assassination of Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico. The court found Cintula guilty of terrorism after he fired five shots at close range at the prime minister in May 2024 during a visit to Handlova.
The incident occurred as Fico was meeting with the public, with Cintula, described as an amateur poet, reportedly mistaking him for a supporter. During the trial, Cintula denied an intent to kill, claiming he aimed away from Fico’s vital organs. His defense had sought a conviction for attacking a public official, a lesser charge, but this was unsuccessful.
The shooting left Prime Minister Fico seriously injured, requiring extensive surgery. He has since recovered and resumed his duties. Cintula stated his motive was to protest government policies, including the suspension of military aid to Ukraine. The verdict is expected to be appealed.