Russia holds vote in seized areas
Summary
Russia has begun parliamentary voting in occupied areas of Ukraine for the first time, with officials in Kyiv denouncing the election as illegal. The Kremlin says the vote in Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia and Crimea is meant to bolster support for its war effort and political control.
Key Points
- Russia's parliamentary election now includes residents of annexed Ukrainian regions for the first time.
- Voting is taking place in Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia and Crimea, some under extended security arrangements.
- Ukrainian officials and human rights activists say the election is illegal and residents are being coerced.
- Vladimir Putin said the vote would show support for Russian forces and the country's political system.
