Vladimir Putin is poised to secure a record victory in Russia’s presidential election, signaling overwhelming public support for his stance on the war in Ukraine and his confrontational approach toward the West.
Preliminary data from exit polls, regional sources, and government officials suggest that Putin is on track to receive more than 80% of the vote by the end of voting on Sunday.
This surpasses his 77% support in the 2018 election, with the Kremlin aiming to demonstrate unified backing for Putin amidst the ongoing conflict.
Turnout exceeded 69% in Moscow by Sunday afternoon, with additional online votes yet to be counted. The high turnout, surpassing that of 2018, underscores the election’s significance.
Amidst calls from allies of the late opposition leader Alexey Navalny to protest, long lines formed outside polling stations in Moscow and St. Petersburg. However, these protests remained relatively subdued amidst a severe crackdown on dissent by the Kremlin.
The election takes place against the backdrop of Russia’s offensive in Ukraine, now in its third year. Despite international sanctions, Russia’s economy has remained resilient, buoyed by energy revenues and increased trade with China.
Putin, already Russia’s longest-serving leader since Stalin, is set to extend his rule for another six years. His reelection comes amidst intensified drone attacks by Ukraine on critical Russian infrastructure.
Putin has dismissed prospects for a ceasefire, insisting on written security guarantees before considering negotiations. Meanwhile, Russia organized voting in occupied areas of Ukraine, a move denounced by Ukrainian authorities as illegal.
Critics have raised concerns about the transparency of the election process, particularly with the introduction of online voting in some regions—the absence of international observers from organizations like the OSCE further fuels skepticism.
Despite criticism, Russian officials remain defiant, rejecting accusations of democratic shortcomings and asserting the strength of Russian democracy.
