Czech Leaders Condemn Russian Threats Against Dominik Hasek

Introduction to the Threats

Czech leaders have condemned threats made by a former Russian president and prime minister against NHL great Dominik Hasek for his critical stance of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

PRAGUE (AP) —
Dmitry Medvedev, who is currently deputy head of Russia’s Security Council chaired by President Vladimir Putin, said through his assistant that Hasek suffered from “Russophobia,” should be careful while crossing roads and should not drink beer in unverified places.

The Remarks and Reactions

The remarks, which included advice for the Hockey Hall of Fame goaltender to see a psychiatrist, were published by the TASS news agency on Tuesday.
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala said on X that such threats are “absolutely unacceptable.” He added that they were not surprising but cannot be ignored because Medvedev is not a private person.
“Medvedev is once again behaving as a primitive,” Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský said on Wednesday. “This time attacking NHL legend Dominik Hasek simply for speaking the truth — the truth about Russia’s war and the misuse of sports in promoting it. Such intimidation may be normal in Putin’s Russia, not in the civilized world!”

Hasek’s Stance on the War

Hasek has been a vocal critic of the war and the participation of Russian athletes at international competitions and leagues, including the NHL, saying that only promotes the war against Ukraine and enables human suffering.
He also criticized the NHL from allowing Alex Ovechkin to break Wayne Gretzky’s record of 894 goals.
In his comments on the record, Medvedev said that Hasek’s suicide can be expected.

Protection and Next Steps

Hasek sent a note to the International Olympic Committee and the International Ice Hockey Federation to inform them that “former Russian President Medvedev threatened to kill me.”
Czech Interior Minister Vít Rakušan said Hasek will receive the necessary protection if needed.

Conclusion

The situation highlights the escalating tensions between Russia and the international community over the invasion of Ukraine. The threats against Dominik Hasek are a concerning development, and the Czech government’s response is a clear indication that such behavior will not be tolerated. The protection of Hasek and the condemnation of Medvedev’s remarks demonstrate the commitment to standing up against intimidation and promoting freedom of speech.

FAQs

1. Who made threats against Dominik Hasek?
   • Dmitry Medvedev, the former Russian president and prime minister, made threats against Dominik Hasek.
2. What was the reason for the threats?
   • The threats were made due to Hasek’s critical stance on the Russian invasion of Ukraine and his opposition to Russian athletes participating in international competitions.
3. How did the Czech government respond to the threats?
   • The Czech government condemned the threats, with the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister speaking out against them, and the Interior Minister offering protection to Hasek if needed.
4. What action did Hasek take after receiving the threats?
   • Hasek informed the International Olympic Committee and the International Ice Hockey Federation about the threats.
5. What does this incident indicate about the current international situation?
   • The incident highlights the increasing tensions between Russia and the international community over the invasion of Ukraine and the importance of standing up against intimidation and promoting freedom of speech.