Russian foreign minister features hockey star in new pro-Putin video, sparking outrage
Sergej Lavrov appears in a propaganda film alongside Washington Capitals forward Aleksandr Ovetsjkin, drawing sharp criticism from Ukrainian observers.
A fresh propaganda clip released in Russia shows Foreign Minister Sergej Lavrov promoting President Vladimir Putin alongside several high-profile figures. Among them is Aleksandr Ovetsjkin, a 40-year-old forward for the Washington Capitals, who has publicly supported Putin and founded the “Team Putin” group in 2017. Ovetsjkin previously participated in a 2014 online campaign claiming to rescue Ukrainian children from fascism, though he later claimed to stay out of politics.
Ukrainian users on X have condemned his appearance, accusing him of backing murder and the ongoing tragedy. The video also includes former hockey icon Vjatjeslav Fetisov, now serving in the State Duma, and conveys a message of unity against perceived external threats. The release comes as Russia prepares for a parliamentary vote, with Putin’s party expected to win.
Why it matters
The video links sports figures to Russian state propaganda, highlighting how politics leverages popular personalities ahead of elections.
How the sides frame it
LOW AGREEMENTLeft-leaning and centrist coverage simply report Ovechkin’s appearance in a United Russia campaign video and list other participants, while right-leaning coverage frames the clip as propaganda that sparked outrage and highlights Ukrainian condemnation.
LEFT
Reports Ovechkin’s participation in a United Russia election video alongside other Russian figures without evaluative language.
CENTER
Notes Ovechkin’s long-standing support for Putin and his role in the United Russia campaign video, presenting it as part of the broader election push.
RIGHT
Labels the video a propaganda clip, emphasizes outrage and accuses Ovechkin of backing murder and the ongoing tragedy.
The left emphasises
- Ovechkin appears in a United Russia campaign video ahead of the September parliamentary elections.
- The video includes Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and other notable Russian personalities.
- Details about the upcoming State Duma elections (Sept 18-20, 2026).
The right emphasises
- The clip is described as fresh propaganda promoting Putin.
- Ukrainian users on X condemn Ovechkin’s appearance, accusing him of backing murder.
- The video conveys a message of unity against perceived external threats.
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