Overview

• Dominik Hasek, an NHL Hall of Famer, claims former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev issued death threats over Hasek's criticism of Russia's war in Ukraine.
• Hasek has sent letters to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), urging them to ban Russia from using sports as propaganda for its war efforts.
• Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala and Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský condemned Medvedev's remarks as unacceptable and reflective of Russia's aggressive political stance.
• Czech Interior Minister Vít Rakušan has assured that Hasek will receive protection if necessary in light of the threats.
• Hasek has been a vocal advocate for banning Russian athletes from international sports and recently criticized the NHL for allowing Alexander Ovechkin, a Putin supporter, to break Wayne Gretzky's goal record.