Slovak PM fights for his life as leaders condemn assassination attempt

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico fought for his life in the hospital Wednesday after being shot multiple times in what the government called a "political assault," as world leaders reacted with shock and condemnation after the shooting.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said he strongly condemns "the heinous assassination attempt" against the PM and wished him a speedy recovery.

"I extend my get-well wishes to the people and government of Slovakia on behalf of my country and nation," Erdoğan said in a written statement made on his social media account.

Slovak president-elect and Fico ally Peter Pellegrini said he learned of the shooting "with horror".

"An assassination attempt on one of the highest constitutional officials is an unprecedented threat to Slovak democracy," he added on X, formerly Twitter.

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen denounced the "vile attack" while NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said he was "shocked and appalled".

U.S. President Joe Biden said he and the first lady "are praying for a swift recovery, and our thoughts are with his family and the people of Slovakia."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the "appalling" shooting while Russian President Vladimir Putin called the shooting a "heinous crime".

"I know Robert Fico to be a courageous and strong-spirited man. I very much hope that these qualities will help him to withstand this difficult situation," Putin said.

"In the hospital"

Surgeons spent hours battling to save the 59-year-old populist leader after the attack.

Deputy Prime Minister Tomas Taraba told the BBC he believed the leader's hospital procedure had gone well.

"I guess in the end he will survive," Taraba said. "He's not in a...