Slovakia Sentences Assassin to 21 Years for Attack on PM Fico

UPDATE: A Slovakian court has just sentenced Juraj Cintula to 21 years in prison for the attempted assassination of Prime Minister Robert Fico. This urgent ruling comes following a terror attack that took place on May 15, 2024, as Fico was greeting supporters in the town of Handlová, located 140 kilometers (approximately 85 miles) northeast of the capital, Bratislava.

The Specialized Criminal Court in Banská Bystrica delivered the verdict today, confirming Cintula’s role in the shocking incident where he opened fire on the Prime Minister. Authorities report that Cintula, 72, was apprehended on-site immediately after the attack and has been held in custody since then. While Cintula’s defense team has indicated plans to appeal, the sentence reflects the gravity of the crime against a sitting leader.

During the attack, Prime Minister Fico was shot in the abdomen and underwent extensive surgery, including a five-hour operation followed by another two-hour procedure two days later. Fortunately, he has since made a full recovery. The Prime Minister’s survival and return to public life highlight the ongoing threats faced by political figures in Slovakia.

Cintula, when questioned, vehemently denied being a “terrorist,” despite the court’s classification of his actions as a terror attack. The case has drawn significant attention, underscoring the precarious political climate in the region.

As news of this verdict spreads, political analysts and citizens alike will be watching closely for any further developments or appeals from Cintula’s defense. The implications of this sentence extend beyond the courtroom, potentially influencing future political discourse in Slovakia.

Stay tuned for additional updates as this story unfolds.