Liverpool defender branded 'enemy of Ukraine' following international clash

Liverpool defender Milos Kerkez has been placed on a database of so-called "enemies of Ukraine", prompting Hungarian foreign ministry intervention. The footballer and his father, Sebastijan, were added to the "Myrotvorets" website following an on-pitch altercation during Hungary's Nations League clash against Ukraine.

After the match, the player's father posted footage of the incident on Instagram, set to the song "Russian Paradise" by Russian rap group AK-47. The post sparked severe backlash from Ukraine, resulting in accusations that Kerkez and his father support Russian aggression against Ukraine. However, the Myrotvorets website is not officially affiliated with the Ukrainian government.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Anita Orban condemned the blacklisting of Kerkez and Hungarian lawmaker Balazs Hidveghi, confirming she had held discussions with Ukrainian officials, the Hungarian Football Federation, and diplomatic personnel to resolve the issue. "I firmly condemn the stigmatisation, any form of blacklisting, and potential threats against Hungarian citizens Milos Kerkez and Balazs Hidveghi," she stated.

Kerkez also dismissed the allegations: "Personally, I have never supported and do not support any form of aggression. I am not someone who thinks causing harm to other people is acceptable. There is always tension during a football match, and in the game against Ukraine, all I did was defend our captain and my friend. I would have done the exact same thing regardless of our opponent. It is also important to note that my father is not me. Whatever he does, I cannot be held responsible for his actions."