Russian President Vladimir Putin has emerged victorious in the country’s presidential elections, commanding a staggering 87% of the vote, as reported by the Russian Public Opinion Research Center. This resounding win guarantees Putin another six-year term in office.
The exit poll data also revealed that Nikolai Kharitonov of the Communist Party trailed with 4.6%, followed by Vladislav Davankov from the New People Party with 4.2%, and Leonid Slutsky of the LDPR with 3%.
However, reactions to Putin’s victory have been swift and critical. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Putin of “simulating another election” and called for his trial in The Hague, denouncing the lack of legitimacy in these elections.
The White House echoed these sentiments, highlighting concerns over the lack of fairness and freedom in the electoral process, citing the imprisonment of political opponents and restrictions on opposition candidates.
Meanwhile, the UK Foreign Office condemned Russia’s actions, stating that holding elections on Ukrainian territory is illegal and undermines efforts for peace. The UK reaffirmed its support for Ukraine, pledging humanitarian, economic, and military aid to defend democracy against such actions.
