In his profile picture on Instagram, Washington Capital's superstar Alexander Ovetchkin poses with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

He has openly expressed his support for him, but after the Russian invasion of Ukraine he was not clear.

- Well, he's my president.

But as I said, I'm not that politically savvy.

I'm an athlete and as I said, I hope it's all over soon.

It is a tough situation for both sides.

I just hope it ends, but I have no control over the situation, he said then.

That statement does not give the Czech legend Dominik Hasek, 57, much for.

- That he is not interested in politics is a lie.

Even a child knows what a war is.

All he says about Russian attacks are lies and excuses.

I would almost be happier if he had said that Russia has the right to take over Ukraine, compared to the story he is now telling.

Ovetchkin has mentioned pressure from Russia as a reason not to give more interviews.

Do you have any understanding of his situation?

- Yes, he is in a difficult situation, but that is no excuse at all.

He has always been a big supporter of Putin, says Hasek.

Another Russian NHL star who has commented on the war in Ukraine is New York Rangers Artemij Panarin.

He has openly criticized Vladimir Putin.

- That he openly criticized Putin and showed his support for Alexei Navalny (opposition politician) showed that he emphasizes democratic values.

It also testifies to great heroism.

We know how it usually goes for Putin's opponents, says Hasek.

How much can sporting sanctions affect politics in Russia?

- A huge amount.

Maybe not right now, but with each passing week, the Russian people will feel it more and more.

Especially when it comes to ice hockey, which is a national pride for them.

- All their national teams are already suspended.

It will create distrust of the country's rule among the population and that is one of the reasons why I want all Russian players in the NHL to be suspended immediately.

That would be a huge blow to Putin.

It would undoubtedly weaken his position and help Ukraine.

SVT Sport has sought Alexander Ovetchkin, among other things through Washington Capital's representatives.

Watch "Hockey night" tonight at 22.00 on SVT Play and 22.30 on SVT1.