Hungary's Foreign Minister Intervenes in Political Storm Surrounding Liverpool Player Milos Kerkez
Hungarian official condemns 'stigmatization' and 'potential threats' against footballer and his father after they were listed as 'enemies of Ukraine'.
Liverpool defender Milos Kerkez and his father have been added to a database of individuals designated as 'enemies of Ukraine' amid a political controversy. The situation prompted intervention from Hungary's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Anita Orban, who condemned the actions as stigmatization and potential threats.
The controversy stems from an incident during a UEFA Nations League match on September 25, where Hungary faced Ukraine in Budapest. Ukraine won the match 1-0. During the game, Kerkez was involved in a confrontation with Ukrainian player Victor Tsygankov, after Tsygankov had a scuffle with Hungary's captain, Dominik Szoboszlai. Kerkez intervened by grabbing Tsygankov by the collar.
Following this incident, Kerkez's father, Sebastijan, reportedly shared an image of the altercation on his Instagram story, accompanied by a song interpreted by some as a reference to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Consequently, both Milos and Sebastijan Kerkez are believed to have been included on Myrotvorets, a non-governmental database that compiles information on individuals deemed hostile to Ukraine.
Hungary's foreign minister, Anita Orban, stated on social media that she strongly condemned the stigmatization, blacklisting, and any potential threats directed at the Hungarian citizens. She confirmed that throughout the weekend, she was in constant consultation with Ukrainian government representatives, the Hungarian Football Federation, and diplomatic colleagues to address the situation. Orban emphasized that sport should prioritize performance, community, and respect, and she thanked the national associations for their cooperation.
Milos Kerkez, who was suspended for the reverse fixture against Ukraine on Monday night, which Hungary won 2-1, downplayed any lingering animosity. He told the Hungarian outlet Telex, "Personally, I have never supported and I do not support any aggression in my life. I am not a person who considers anything that harms others acceptable." He clarified that his actions were in defense of his captain and friend, stating he would have done the same regardless of the opponent.
It is important to note that the Myrotvorets list is not officially affiliated with the Ukrainian government. The database also includes other figures, such as Hungarian Member of Parliament Balazs Hidveghi, who has also been targeted by similar accusations.