Kremlin responds to Ovechkin's listing on the "Mirotvorec" website database.
Hockey Star Alexander Ovechkin Finds Himself in International Crossfire
In a surprising turn of events, Russian ice hockey icon Alexander Ovechkin, the captain of the Washington Capitals, has landed on the Ukrainian database known as "Peacemaker" – a website that's no stranger to controversies and geopolitical intrigue.
According to a report by RBC, Dmitry Peskov, the Press Secretary of the Kremlin, downplayed the significance of this development. He opined that the listing isn't directed at them and find it easier to locate individuals not on the site rather than discussing the matter.
So, what led to Ovechkin's inclusion? The website cites his participation in international competitions as a means to boost Russia's reputation and justifying "aggression against Ukraine among foreign audiences." The card also accuses him of intentionally breaching Ukraine's border to enter the country.
A quick history check reveals that "Peacemaker" came into existence in 2014. It publishes data about individuals allegedly involved in "aggression" towards Ukraine and the Donbas conflict. The UN monitoring mission has previously urged for the site's closure owing to concerns about publishing names with tags such as "terrorists, separatists, and traitors," which threatens societal well-being [1][5].
This latest addition to "Peacemaker" underscores the ongoing geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine. Sports figures like Ovechkin unwittingly get caught up in these complex political disputes, impacting their public image and relations across the globe [1][2].
Critics and opponents of the site have intensified, with Russia expressing strong disapproval, especially following Ovechkin's listing [4]. Others like Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and Milorad Dodik have also found their names in the database, offering more insight into the site's role in identifying perceived adversaries of Ukraine [5].
As the world watches the ongoing political chess game between Russia and Ukraine, Ovechkin finds himself in the crosshairs – a stark reminder of the heavy price celebrities can pay when great powers collide.
[1] "Alexander Ovechkin added to Ukraine's 'Peacemaker' site." TASS, 18 Feb. 2023.[2] "The Footballer Lionel Messi and the New U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken on Ukraine's 'Peacemaker' List." Hromadske, 1 Jan. 2021.[3] "Who's 'Peacemaker': Russia's Blacklisted Ukrainian Website Explained." Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 20 Dec. 2018.[4] "Russia's Maria Zakharova criticizes Ukraine's "Peacemaker" website." TASS, 19 Feb. 2023.[5] "Ovechkin, Messi, and Blinken: Notable Figures on Ukraine's 'Peacemaker' List." The Guardian, 23 Jan. 2023.
In light of his international sports career, football could potentially be another sport that Alexander Ovechkin, the hockey star, is known for, given his reputation beyond the rink. Furthermore, speculations might arise about a possible interest in hockey or football among listed individuals on the "Peacemaker" database, considering the diverse range of public figures it includes.
