The trial of the man who shot and seriously wounded Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico in May last year is expected to begin today, Reuters reported, quoted by BTA.
The 72-year-old defendant has been charged with terrorism. Prosecutors say the attack was aimed at destabilizing the government and disrupting its functioning. If found guilty by the Specialized Criminal Court, the man could face life in prison.
During the investigation, the shooter stated that he did not intend to kill the prime minister, but only to injure him, expressing disagreement with his policies on Ukraine, the media and culture.
Robert Fico, 60, who is currently serving his fourth term as prime minister, has clashed sharply with Slovakia's partners in the European Union and NATO over his positions against military aid to Ukraine and his desire to maintain good relations with Russia.
Fico accused the attacker of being an opposition activist and pointed to liberal, pro-European parties as responsible for creating an atmosphere of hatred in society. The main opposition forces have categorically denied any connection with the shooter.