Czech leaders have strongly condemned threats allegedly made by Dmitry Medvedev, the former Russian president and prime minister, against hockey legend Dominik Hasek after Hasek voiced his opposition to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Medvedev, now deputy head of Russia’s Security Council, accused Hasek of “Russophobia” and suggested he should see a psychiatrist. Medvedev, through his assistant Oleg Osipov, also made ominous remarks advising Hasek to be careful when crossing roads or drinking beer in unfamiliar places.
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala responded to these comments, calling them “absolutely unacceptable” and stressing that while not surprising, they should not be ignored, given Medvedev’s prominent position. Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský also criticized Medvedev, calling him a “primitive” for attacking Hasek simply for speaking out against Russia’s war. Lipavský further emphasized that such threats may be common in Putin’s Russia but are not acceptable in the civilized world.
Hasek has been an outspoken critic of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the involvement of Russian athletes in international sports, claiming that it sends a message of acceptance for the war and the associated atrocities. In a 2023 interview, he pointed out that Russian athletes, like those competing in the NHL, are linked to the Russian regime’s imperialistic actions.
Medvedev had also made a comment on Telegram after Russian hockey star Alex Ovechkin broke Wayne Gretzky’s goal-scoring record, suggesting that Hasek might end his life. In response, Hasek informed both the International Olympic Committee and the International Ice Hockey Federation of Medvedev’s threatening remarks, saying the former Russian leader had threatened his life.
Czech officials, including Fiala, expressed concern about such threats, emphasizing that it’s unacceptable to intimidate citizens for expressing their views. Fiala indicated that government members are in contact with Hasek and would take further action if necessary, although no specific steps were disclosed.
