Russia holds first election since invasion

Russians voted in a three-day parliamentary election, the first nationwide vote since February 2022 when Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. President Putin cast his ballot online.

Voting extends to occupied territories

Voting also took place in Russian-held parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. Ukraine and Western allies reject Moscow's territorial claims and view these areas as occupied Ukrainian land.

Outcome appears largely predictable

Putin's United Russia party is expected to dominate the election. Most anti-war candidates were barred from participating, limiting genuine political competition.

Cyberattacks target voting systems

Russia's Central Election Commission reported strong attacks on Moscow's online voting system overnight. The Digital Ministry also reported attempted sabotage of communication lines in the Far East, which it said was thwarted.

“continuing attacks had so far been "successfully repelled."”

Putin accuses Ukraine without evidence

Putin alleged Ukraine attempted to interfere with the election but provided no evidence. Russia has also rejected European accusations of hybrid attacks including cyberattacks, sabotage and drone incidents.

War continues with no end in sight

The conflict enters its fifth year with Russian missile and drone attacks ongoing against Ukraine, while Kyiv strikes targets inside Russia. European governments worry about escalating Russian hybrid threats to critical infrastructure.