The National Hockey League (NHL) has issued a statement condemning Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine and a complete suspension of all business relations in Russia.
“It will take effect immediately, suspending relationships with Russian business partners, suspending Russian social and digital media sites, and discontinuing Russia’s consideration as a venue for future conventions involving NHL. “Masu,” said the organization. Press release..
The organization has also expressed concern about the well-being of Russian players currently playing for the NHL on behalf of the NHL club. “We understand that they and their families are in a very difficult position.” The NHL called for a prompt and peaceful resolution to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Previously, NHL Hall of Fame player Dominik Hasek made a contract for all Russian players because all players represent not only themselves and his club, but also the values and actions of his country. I called on the organization to stop immediately. He argued that otherwise the NHL would have “indirect joint responsibility” for the Ukrainian dead.
“I’m very sorry for V. Putin and the Russian athletes who condemn his invasion of Russia in Ukraine, but at this point I think they also need to be eliminated,” Hashek said. Tweet February 26th.
The NHL statement was issued shortly after the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) announced sanctions against Belarus and Russia. IIHF has revoked Russia’s right to host the 2023 World Junior Championships, which begins in December.
Both Belarus and Russia are banned from participating in the six competitions between March and September. However, the IIHF did not indicate a change to the 2023 World Men’s Championship, which is scheduled to open in Russia in May 2023.
“IIHF is not a political entity and cannot influence the decisions made in the war in Ukraine,” said IIHF President Luc Tardiff. announcement..
“Still, we have a duty of care to all members and participants, so we do everything we can to ensure that all teams participating in the IIHF World Championship program can run the event in a safe environment. Must be. “
North American Hockey and Hockey Canada have issued a statement in support of the IIHF decision. With the support of Belarus, US hockey called Putin’s actions against Ukraine “beyond blame.”
In addition to IIHF and NHL, several other sports organizations have also announced actions against Russia and Belarus. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) recommends that the International Federation and the organizers of sporting events not invite or allow Belarusian and Russian athletes to participate in international competitions.
FIFA has stopped participating in Russia’s international matches and UEFA has banned Russian clubs from participating in European matches.
follow
Naveen Athrappully is a news reporter covering business and global events in The Epoch Times.