Ovechkin Says He Supports Russia, Not War, After Appearing in Putin Party Ad

Washington Capitals forward Alex Ovechkin is facing criticism after appearing in a television advertisement for Russian President Vladimir Putin's political party, according to ESPN.

Ovechkin, the NHL's career goal-scoring leader, responded to the backlash by saying he supports Russia but does not support the war with Ukraine, ESPN reported.

"I support what's happening in Russia," Ovechkin said, according to ESPN. He added that he is "not pro-war" and expressed hope that the conflict between Russia and Ukraine will end soon.

The appearance in the ad for Putin's party has drawn attention given the ongoing war in Ukraine, which has prompted scrutiny of prominent Russian public figures, including athletes, over their public statements and associations.

Ovechkin has previously spoken publicly about the war, at times expressing hope for peace while maintaining ties to Russia and to Putin, whom he has known personally. ESPN's report did not provide further detail on the content of the advertisement.

ESPN's report did not indicate whether Ovechkin or the NHL have issued additional statements beyond the comments cited.