In the occupied territories of Ukraine, the Russian military is enforcing participation in the Russian presidential election at gunpoint. Heavily armed, masked soldiers accompany election officials as they go door-to-door, compelling Ukrainians to cast their votes.
This election staging in occupied Ukraine violates international law, drawing condemnation from Ukraine and 55 other nations at the United Nations for Russia’s blatant disregard for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Yevheniia Hliebova, head of Novomykolaivka village military administration, described the situation as an “election at gunpoint,” highlighting the violence and coercion involved.
Residents who refuse to vote face threats of repercussions, creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation. This echoes the autumn of 2022, when similar tactics were employed during illegal referendums on Russian annexation.
Vladimir Putin, in power since 1999, is poised to secure another six-year term in an election devoid of genuine democratic choice. Constitutional changes enable him to potentially rule until 2036, solidifying his grip on power.
The forced voting is part of a broader Russification agenda in occupied regions, involving curriculum changes, repression of pro-Kyiv figures, and the imposition of Russian passports for daily life.
Reports from occupied cities like Mariupol reveal a grim reality, with voting taking place amidst the ruins of war. State propaganda portrays a facade of normalcy, masking the coercion and lack of choice faced by residents.
Ukrainians under Russian control are subjected to intimidation, bribery, and pressure to vote. The principle of a secret ballot is violated as citizens are forced to fill out ballots in front of pro-Kremlin election workers and soldiers.
Elderly pensioners are targeted in house-to-house visits, where gifts are used to coerce them into voting for Putin. The presence of armed soldiers instills fear, reminiscent of wartime atrocities.
As the forced voting proceeds, Russian ballistic missile strikes claim innocent lives in cities like Odessa, highlighting the tragic consequences of this illegal electoral charade.
The U.S. ambassador to the United Nations condemns Russia’s actions as a cynical attempt to legitimize Putin’s land grab, while Ukrainian officials call for international bodies to reject Putin’s legitimacy.
In occupied cities like Berdyansk, election officials go door to door, urging people to vote, further illustrating the coercive tactics employed by Russian forces.
Despite protests and dissent, Russian authorities crack down on any form of opposition, demonstrating their determination to maintain control at any cost.
As the election unfolds, the plight of Ukrainians trapped in occupied territories serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing aggression and oppression perpetuated by the Russian regime.