Trump and Putin Discuss US-Russia Hockey Series Amid Geopolitical Tensions
U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed a potential hockey series during a recent call. The Kremlin reported Trump’s support for organizing games involving NHL and KHL players. The NHL expressed surprise at being excluded from discussions, while Russian hockey faces limitations due to political sanctions. Upcoming tournaments may still allow for Russian participation, contingent on evolving political circumstances.
During a recent call, U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed the possibility of hosting a series of hockey games between the United States and Russia. The Kremlin confirmed Trump supported organizing matches featuring players from both the NHL and KHL. The conversation took place against the backdrop of other significant issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, but the White House did not address the hockey aspect in its summary of the call.
The NHL expressed surprise at the discussions, stating they were not involved and therefore unable to comment. In the meantime, USA Hockey has not provided an immediate response to inquiries regarding the proposed hockey series. This dialogue represents Trump’s continued involvement in hockey events, having previously contacted the U.S. national team during the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament.
Putin is well-known for his enthusiasm for hockey, famously attending the U.S.-Russia game in the 2014 Sochi Olympics. The historical rivalry between the nations in hockey has roots dating back to the 1980 Winter Olympics, where the U.S. team achieved a stunning upset over the Soviet Union, known as the “Miracle on Ice.”
Despite their storied rivalry, Russian teams have faced significant restrictions following the Ukraine invasion. Since February 2022, they have been banned from all International Ice Hockey Federation competitions, while their participation in the 2026 Milan Olympics remains undecided. The NHL has permitted the inclusion of Russian players in its league, including star Alex Ovechkin, amidst the ongoing geopolitical issues.
Plans are underway for a World Cup of Hockey in 2028, but the inclusion of Russian players is uncertain. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman acknowledged the grand tradition of Russian hockey and the complexities brought upon by current global politics. Union executive director Marty Walsh expressed hope for the return of Russian athletes to international competitions in the near future, emphasizing their talents.
The recent discussion between Trump and Putin about a potential U.S.-Russia hockey series illustrates both leaders’ interest in sports to mediate relations, despite the ongoing geopolitical tensions. While the NHL was not involved in these discussions, they highlight the complexities surrounding Russian participation in international hockey due to political issues stemming from the Ukraine conflict. The future of Russian athletes in tournaments remains uncertain, but there is hope for their return in upcoming events.
Original Source: apnews.com
