Slovak PM Fico returns publicly, backs Orban's Moscow visit

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico made his first public appearance since surviving an assassination attempt in May.

He delivered a speech that criticized progressive ideologies and expressed support for Hungarian leader Viktor Orban’s recent trip to Moscow, Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

Fico, who is recuperating from being shot four times at close range, appeared at an evening ceremony celebrating Saints Cyril and Methodius Day, a significant holiday in Slovakia. He spoke from a podium situated at ancient castle ruins dating back over 11 centuries.

Returning to power last September as a four-time leftist prime minister, Fico was attacked while greeting supporters at a government meeting in Handlova, requiring extensive surgery and subsequent recovery at home.

The assassination attempt has heightened divisions in the country of 5.4 million people.

In his first live speech since the attack, Fico criticized progressive and liberal ideologies which he likened to a "spreading cancer" detrimental to Slovakia.

He also addressed the attacker, described by prosecutors as 71-year-old Juraj C., who has been charged with attempted premeditated murder, with the case now elevated to a terrorist act. The attacker reportedly targeted Fico due to disagreement with the government's policies, though Fico himself has expressed forgiveness.

Despite criticism, Fico has maintained a stance leaning towards Russia, in contrast to the EU's cautious approach. He reiterated his call for peace talks in the Ukraine-Russia conflict and expressed regret at being unable to join Orban on his Moscow visit due to health concerns.

Orban's meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin had sparked controversy within the EU, but Fico emphasized the necessity of more initiatives aimed at peace in the region.