Slovakia PM shooting: Latest updates on Robert Fico fighting for his life after being shot ‘three times’ during assassination attempt as suspect detained

World leaders, including Rishi Sunak, were quick to condemn the attack on Fico.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also posted statements on their social media accounts.

Authorities in Slovakia have said Fico’s condition is life-threatening after he was shot several times this afternoon.

In a statement provided to Denník N, a government spokesperson said:

He is currently being transported by helicopter to Banská Bystrica, because getting to Bratislava would take too long due to the need for urgent intervention.

The next few hours will decide.

Read the latest news from our reporter Taryn Pedler, which will be updated constantly.

Here’s what we know so far about the assassination attempt on the Prime Minister of Slovakia:

• Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico (above) is in hospital in a life-threatening situation after being shot several times this afternoon in an assassination attempt.
• Fico was taken to hospital after being attacked in front of the House of Culture in the city of Handlova, about 150 kilometers northeast of the capital.
• The 59-year-old had attended a government meeting and was reportedly talking to people outside the building when the gunman opened fire.
• A suspect was arrested at the scene
• Slovakia’s president, Zuzana Caputova, said she is “shocked” and condemned the “brutal and ruthless” attack.

We will continue to offer you the latest news.

Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico was shot and wounded in an assassination attempt.

Fico was taken to hospital after being shot up to three times following a government meeting in Handlova, about 150 kilometers northeast of the capital, Bratislava.

Follow MailOnline’s live coverage for the latest on this breaking news story.