Russia holds first parliamentary vote since Ukraine invasion amid tightened Kremlin control
Russia is conducting its first Duma election since the 2022 invasion, while the Kremlin restricts opposition participation and the war looms over the campaign.
Russia's first State Duma election since the 2022 Ukraine invasion is taking place this weekend, with the conflict heavily influencing the political climate. The Supreme Court recently prevented Jabloko, the only openly anti-war party, from submitting a nationwide candidate list, effectively silencing much of the opposition. Julija Navalnaja, widow of Alekszej Navalnij, has called on citizens to vote for candidates who at least do not openly endorse the war, a strategy some opponents claim legitimises the vote and strengthens Vladimir Putin's rule.
Kremlin officials, including Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, have warned that those who challenge the state will not receive mercy. Over a thousand veterans, such as Eduard Sonov, are running under United Russia and other pro-Kremlin parties, ensuring a dominant pro-war bloc in the Duma, while the opposition debates the merits of the “smart voting” approach.
Why it matters
The election will shape Russia's political direction and the legitimacy of its war effort in Ukraine.
How this story developed
- Sep 12 Russia conducts tightly-controlled parliamentary vote amid fifth year of Ukraine war
- Sep 16 Voting has begun, moving the election from planning to execution.
- Sep 19 Putin framed the election as a plebiscite on the war and called on citizens to turn out in support.
- Sep 19 State pollster VTsIOM said Putin’s trust rating hit 74.2% in the week before the election.
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