Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin spoke to the media on Friday to discuss Russia and the invasion of Ukraine, calling it a “hard situation” and hoping to see an end to the violence.

“Obviously, it’s hard situation. I have lots of friends in Russia and Ukraine and it’s hard to see the war,” Ovechkin said. “I hope soon it’s going to be over, and it’s going to be peace in the whole world.”

Back in 2017, Ovechkin voiced his support for President Vladimir Putin and started the social movement “Putin Team.” However, he explained that he cannot control what is happening right now in Russia, and has no say in Putin’s actions.

“I’m Russian, right? [It’s something] I can’t control, it’s not in my hands,” Ovechkin said. “How I said, I hope it’s going to end soon, and it’s going to be peace in both countries. You know, I don’t control this one.”