The Washington CapitalsThe team supported its Russian-born players with “full support”, while it issued a statement Tuesday condemning Russia’s invasion. “Monumental Sports & Entertainment and the Washington Capitals join the National Hockey League in condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the loss of innocent life. The Capitals stated that they hope for a peaceful resolution and urged the Russians to stop invading Ukraine.
It is the 11th statement made by the Capitals about the war with Ukraine. Alex OvechkinHis only comment was about the Russian invasion.
Ovechkin (36), has been an avid supporter of Russian President Vladimir Putin throughout the years. Ovechkin, 36, started a social-media movement called Putin Team in 2017, to advocate for Putin. He is pictured with Putin in an Instagram profile picture.
“Please, please, no more war. Ovechkin, on February 25, stated that no matter who is fighting — Russia, Ukraine or other countries — it doesn’t really matter. We must live peacefully.”
Ovechkin responded to a question about whether he supports Russia invading Ukraine. It’s something I cannot control. It’s not in our control. It’s not in my control. I hope that it will end soon. This one is beyond my control.
The Capitals stated Tuesday that they would support Ovechkin and other Russian-born players in their forward statement Evgeny Kuznetsov, defenseman Dmitry OrlovGoalie Ilya Samsonov.
“The Capitals stand with our Russian players and their families abroad. The team said that they understand their situation and are ready to assist them and their families.
Ovechkin complained that the invasion was a “hard place” for him.
It’s difficult. There are many people I know in Russia and Ukraine that can help me see the conflict. “I hope it will be over soon and there will be peace throughout the entire world,” he stated.
The Capitals will be playing their first road match since Ovechkin’s press conference in Calgary Tuesday night. ESPN asked the Flames if they would place restrictions on flags or signs supporting Ukraine in these circumstances. They referred to the Saddledome arena policy that allows small flags and signs that are not objectionable in content or nature.
The Flames performed the Ukrainian national anthem in support of Ukraine before their game against Edmonton on Monday night.
Salim Nadim Valji of TSN says that the Flames have no plans to use Ukraine’s national anthem in future games. Since the Russian invasion, the team has either featured a message of support for Ukraine or performed the anthem at their two home games.