# Ovechkin defends Putin party ad appearance

> The Capitals star says he's 'for peace and love' after appearing in a campaign video for a Russian political party aligned with Vladimir Putin.
- Title: Ovechkin defends Putin party ad appearance · The Banner
- Summary: The Capitals star says he's 'for peace and love' after appearing in a campaign video for a Russian political party aligned with Vladimir Putin. Ovechkin…
- Keywords: alex ovechkin, washington capitals, united russia, vladimir putin, russia, ukraine war, nhl, political ad, sergey lavrov, news, local, Ovechkin
- Source: The Banner — https://thebanner.com/sports/capitals-nhl/capitals-alex-ovechkin-responds-pro-putin-ad-BRZQQNYJLRCOHBEHZ2DL6RGCFM
- Author: Associated Press
- Published: 2026-09-17T20:48:39.873+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: alex ovechkin, washington capitals, united russia, vladimir putin, russia, ukraine war, nhl, political ad, sergey lavrov, news, local
## Ovechkin appears in Putin-aligned ad
The Washington Capitals star appeared in a campaign video for United Russia, a party aligned with Vladimir Putin, during the offseason. The ad also featured Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Soviet hockey legend Viacheslav Fetisov.
## Star says he simply said yes
Ovechkin explained his participation was straightforward: "They asked me to do that. I say yes. So it's as simple as that." He did not hesitate when asked to participate.

> They asked me to do that. I say yes. So it's as simple as that.
## Ovechkin reiterates support for Russia
At media day Thursday, the 41-year-old said "I'm Russian, and I support my country" and expressed hope for peace. He confirmed plans to live in Russia when he retires from the NHL.

> I'm Russian, and I support my country.
## History of Putin support
Ovechkin started a social movement called the "Putin Team" in 2017. When Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, he said "Please, no more war" but maintained he's not involved in politics.

> Please, no more war.
## Capitals star returns for 22nd season
Ovechkin, the NHL's career goal-scoring leader, is back with Washington for his 22nd season. He remains noncommittal about his future beyond the 2026-27 season.
## Key takeaway

Ovechkin participated in a United Russia party ad without hesitation and continues to express support for Russia despite the ongoing war in Ukraine.