Russian ice hockey superstar Alex Ovechkin spoke out on Friday against the war in Ukraine started by his home country.
“Please, no more wars. We have to live in peace,” said the Washington Capitals NHL professional after a training session. Ovechkin is known as an ardent supporter of Russian President Valdimir Putin.
“Of course it’s a difficult situation. I have a lot of friends in Russia and Ukraine and it’s hard to see the war,” said Ovechkin, who hopes “the war will be over soon.” The 36-year-old’s parents, wife and children are said to be in Russia at the moment.
Despite his stance on Putin, Ovechkin stressed that he was “not a politician” but said: “He is my president”.
In terms of sport, Ovechkin reached a milestone just a few weeks ago with his 750th goal in the NHL.