Slovak President Čaputová Announces She Won't Seek Reelection, Paving Way for Return of Populists

Zuzana Čaputová, Slovakia's first female president, said she will not run again next year citing difficulties over her first term.
Čaputová has been a pro-Western voice supporting Ukraine against Russia but lacks the strength for another term.
Čaputová is the most popular Slovak politician but former PM Robert Fico and his leftist party lead in polls to win the election.
The Slovak presidency has limited power but helps shape debate and government formation.
Čaputová's decision opens the field for other candidates to launch campaigns in the election.