Full Breakdown
Alex Ovechkin’s Appearance in a United Russia Campaign Advertisement
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin featured in a video promoting United Russia, the party led by President Vladimir Putin, ahead of Russia’s parliamentary elections. The ad shows Ovechkin standing beside Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and former Soviet star Viacheslav Fetisov. Ovechkin said he “did not hesitate” when asked to participate, adding that he “said yes” because the request was straightforward.
Background & Context
Ovechkin has previously expressed support for the Russian president, launching a “Putin Team” movement in 2017 and stating “I just support my country.” During the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, he publicly pleaded “no more war” and described Putin as “my president” while emphasizing his role as an athlete, not a politician. United Russia, which backs the war, is the dominant party in the upcoming election; the only party opposing the conflict has been barred from the ballot.
Official Statements & Responses
- He also indicated plans to reside permanently in Russia after his playing career.
- Capitals general manager Chris Patrick called the situation “difficult” and said he understood why people were upset, noting his limited expertise on geopolitical matters.
- The National Hockey League declined to comment directly, stating the issue would be left to the team.
- Latvia’s foreign minister announced that Ovechkin, along with Russian oligarch Umar Kremlev, had been placed on a “persona non grata” list, barring entry to the NATO member indefinitely.
Criticism & Opposition
Republican Representative Joe Wilson condemned the ad, highlighting that it featured Maria Lvova-Belova, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court for the unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children. Former Czech goaltender Dominik Hasek also criticized the participation, labeling it as support for the war.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The thing about (the) video, I'm Russian. As soon as I'm done playing hockey, I'm probably going to stay there. I'm going to live there. My kids are going to live there,” — Alexander Ovechkin, washington capitals captain
- “Even more disturbing, this United Russia campaign includes Maria Lvova-Belova, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court for her role in the unlawful deportation and transfer of Ukrainian children from Russian-occupied territory,” — Republican Representative Joe Wilson
- “I'm Russian, and I support my country,” — Alexander Ovechkin, washington capitals captain
- “I'm for peace and love, and I hope in the world it doesn't matter who you are, I hope everybody understands everybody wants peace, and everybody hope everything's going to be OK in the world.” — Alexander Ovechkin, washington capitals captain