Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin addresses Russia's invasion of Ukraine

“Well, he’s my president,” Ovechkin said. “Like I said, I’m not in politics. I’m an athlete.”

He provided a similar answer when asked if he supports Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He acknowledged it’s a “hard situation.”

“I’m Russian, right,” said Ovechkin, “It’s something I can’t control, it’s not in my hands.”

Otherwise, Ovechkin kept his opinions pretty close to the vest. He mentioned that his family is currently back in Russia, including his wife, two children and parents — and with uncertain plans as to if they’ll remain there.

“I have a family back in Russia,” Ovechkin said. “It’s scary moments.”

Ovechkin reiterated throughout his availability that he hopes for peace in both countries, and he attempted to remain neutral to any political discussion, saying he hopes everything is going to be “done soon.”

“Please, no more war,” Ovechkin said. “It doesn’t matter who is in the war — Russia, Ukraine, different countries — we have to live in peace.”