NHL condemns Russia's Ukraine invasion, says Russian players being placed in 'extremely difficult position'

Fox News Flash top headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

The NHL condemned Russia’s attacks on Ukraine in a statement on Monday, vowing to suspend its business dealings with Russian  partners, but the league also expressed its sympathy for Russian native players who it says play "on behalf" of its clubs and not Russia. 

The league said it hopes for a quick and "peaceful resolution" and took a stance against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, announcing a halt on its dealings with Russian business partners and other measures. 

"The National Hockey League condemns Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and urges a peaceful resolution as quickly as possible," the statement read. "Effective immediately, we are suspending our relationships with our business partners in Russia and we are pausing our Russian language social and digital media sites. In addition, we are discontinuing any consideration of Russia as a location for any future competitions involving the NHL."

Alex Ovechkin, who is a known supporter of Russian President Vladimir Putin, told reporters Friday that he hopes the conflict in Ukraine will "end soon" but seemingly avoided distancing himself from Putin. (Joshua Sarner/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

The league also expressed its "concern" for its Russian-born players and their families. 

RUSSIA INVADES UKRAINE: LIVE UPDATES

 "We also remain concerned about the well-being of the players from Russia, who play in the NHL on behalf of their NHL Clubs, and not on behalf of Russia. We understand they and their families are being placed in an extremely difficult position."

The NHL’s statement follows comments made by Hall of Famer goaltender Dominik Hasek, who blasted Washington Capitals forward Alex