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

Slovak media reports that the suspect arrested after the shooting of the country’s Prime Minister Robert Fico is a 71-year-old man from Levice.

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

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

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

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

He is currently being transported by helicopter to Banská Bystrica, as it would take too long to reach Bratislava due to the need for an acute intervention.

The next few hours will decide.

Read the latest news story from our reporter Taryn Pedler, constantly updated.

Here’s what we know so far about the attempted assassination of the Slovak Prime Minister:

• Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico (above) is in a life-threatening condition in hospital after being shot several times in an assassination attempt this afternoon.
• Mr Fico was taken to hospital after he was attacked outside the House of Culture in the town 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
• Slovak President Zuzana Caputova has said he is “shocked” as he condemned the “brutal and brutal” attack.

We will continue to bring you the latest developments

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has been shot and wounded in an assassination attempt.

Mr Fico was taken to hospital after being hit by three bullets following a government meeting in Handlova, about 150 kilometers northeast of the capital Bratislava.

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