Senators owner Melnyk pledges support for Ukraine

Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk pledged his support to Ukraine amid Russia's ongoing invasion in an open letter published Wednesday.

"I am a proud and patriotic Canadian, born and raised in this special country. I am also a proud Ukrainian, the son of parents who were both born in Ukraine," he wrote. "The steadfast will and determination that is my heritage has attracted the admiration and respect of people around the world. Today, we are all Ukrainian."

The 62-year-old outlined ways the Senators will show their support over the remainder of the season. The team will play the Ukrainian national anthem before every home game and find ways to use the Canadian Tire Centre as a drop-off point to collect donations of clothing and medical supplies.

"As an organization and a community, I am confident that our collective actions and contributions will make a significant difference in the lives of Ukrainians who are currently under siege," he said.

Melnyk took out a full-page ad in two Ottawa newspapers to promote his message.