When the venues for the World Cup in February 2028 were announced on Monday, the NHL and the players' union, the NHLPA, which organizes the tournament, said that no decision had been made about Russia's participation.
Eight teams will play in the World Cup, but which ones have not been announced.
After rumors that Sweden, Finland and the Czech Republic are threatening to boycott the World Cup if Russia is allowed to participate, the NHL is issuing a clearer message.
"We know what they think and that they have strong opinions about it, and frankly, the entire international ice hockey community has the same opinion," said Bill Daly, NHL deputy commissioner, according to Sportsnet.
Daly said Russia will likely not be allowed to participate if Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine is still ongoing.
