Slovakia PM in Stable but Serious Condition After Shooting

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is currently in a stable yet serious condition following multiple gunshot wounds sustained on Wednesday, as reported by medical professionals.

After undergoing five hours of surgery, he is now being closely monitored in the intensive care unit, according to the hospital director.

The incident occurred in Handlova, a small town where Fico, aged 59, was critically injured in what was described as a life-threatening attack. A suspect has been apprehended at the shooting site.

During a press conference, Miriam Lapunikova, director of F. D. Roosevelt University Hospital in Banska Bystrica where Fico is being treated, emphasized the severity of his condition, stating it as "truly very serious."

Deputy Prime Minister Tomas Taraba expressed optimism to the BBC about Fico's recovery, noting that the surgery had been successful and he is hopeful for Fico's survival.

Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estoka labeled the incident as a politically motivated attempt on Fico's life. 

Fico, who has been a polarizing figure in Slovak politics and contentious within the EU for his stance on military aid to Ukraine and sanctions on Russia, has seen widespread condemnation of the attack, which many are calling an assault on democracy.