Parliamentary Elections Begin in Russian-Seized Regions of Ukraine
The elections, which have drawn reactions from the international community and Kyiv, started early for security reasons.
Russia is holding parliamentary elections for the first time in regions it occupied and annexed in Ukraine, a move met with strong condemnation internationally and in Kyiv.
Polling Stations Established for the First Time in Annexed Regions
The parliamentary elections held by Russia also include, for the first time, residents of the regions that Moscow illegally annexed from Ukraine following its full-scale invasion.
Early Voting Process Due to Security Reasons
Although voting across Russia is scheduled to last until Sunday, voting in the annexed parts of Ukraine started earlier due to security reasons.
Kyiv Administration and International Reactions
Authorities in Ukraine described this action as illegal, while human rights defenders stated that residents were pressured to participate.
European Union and Ukrainian authorities stated that the vote is a clear violation of international law, calling on the international community not to recognize these elections.