Ovechkin announces 'social movement' in support of Vladimir Putin

Alex Ovechkin took to Instagram on Thursday to declare a "social movement" in support of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

In the caption, as translated by The Washington Post, Ovechkin says he's never hid his relationship with Putin and has "always openly supported him." He's simply taking that a step further on social media.

I’m certain that there are many of us that support Vladimir Putin. Let’s unite and show everyone a strong and united Russia. Today, I want to announce a social movement in the name of Putin Team. Be a part of this team to me it’s a privilege, it’s like the feeling of when you put on the jersey of the Russian team, knowing that the whole country is rooting for you.

Following a win over the New York Islanders later in the day, the Washington Capitals superstar further explained his public support for the Russian President.

"I don’t try to be politics man or someone like that," Ovechkin said. "I just support my president and just support my country because I’m from there, and you know, if people from U.S. came to Russia, they care about what happening in U.S. So, I care about what happening in Russia because that’s my home and that’s where I’m from."

Ovechkin frequently represents his home country in international tournaments, and was very open about his disappointment over not being allowed to play at the 2018 Winter Olympics in South Korea as the NHL will not participate.