Russians begin voting in controlled election as war drags on
Summary
Russians have begun a tightly controlled three-day parliamentary election widely expected to deliver another victory for Vladimir Putin’s United Russia party as the war in Ukraine drags on. The vote is unfolding amid drone attacks, political repression, and renewed fears of a fresh military mobilisation.
Key Points
- Polling stations opened in Russia’s Far East for a three-day election that is expected to keep United Russia in control of the Duma.
- The vote is being held under heavy Kremlin control, with criticism of the Ukraine war banned and opposition parties sidelined.
- Moscow reported destroying dozens of Ukrainian drones headed for the capital overnight.
- The election is also being watched as a test of public support for the war and possible new mobilisation fears.
