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Alex Ovechkin claims he’s ‘not in politics’. His pro-Putin video says the opposite

Alex Ovechkin claims he’s ‘not in politics’. His pro-Putin video says the opposite

Summary

Alexander Ovechkin, captain of the Washington Capitals hockey team, appeared in a video supporting the pro-Putin United Russia party. Although he said he is "not in politics," his participation in the video shows a political stance connected to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Capitals acknowledged his involvement but focused on his hockey career without addressing the political issues.

Key Facts

  • Alexander Ovechkin is the long-time captain of the Washington Capitals NHL team.
  • Ovechkin has a close relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin and has publicly supported him before.
  • In 2023, Ovechkin appeared in a campaign video for United Russia, a party backing Putin.
  • He said in interviews that he is "not in politics" but also expressed pride in being Russian.
  • The Capitals released a statement noting Ovechkin's Russian citizenship and said his focus remains on hockey.
  • Critics question Ovechkin's involvement given Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and related political violence.
  • Former NHL player Dominik Hasek criticized the Capitals for not addressing Ovechkin’s political impact.
  • The article mentions a recent US indictment accusing people linked to Russia of planning violence in the US, highlighting ongoing tensions.
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