(ConservativeJournal.org) – Vladimir Putin has won Russia’s presidential election. Exit polling by the state-run Russian Public Opinion Research Center and the Public Opinion Foundation indicates Putin secured almost 90% of the vote.
Before the official announcement, Russia’s electoral commission reported Putin leading with most of the vote, with the Communist party candidate, Nikolai Kharitonov, in second place. The government recorded a record-high turnout of the electorate. They were aiming to enhance both voter turnout and Putin’s vote share, which is reminiscent of practices seen in Russia’s most authoritarian regions. In response to Putin’s anticipated win, Russia’s opposition mobilized. Long queues formed at polling stations following a call from Navalny’s widow to vote against Putin.
The results of the elections have caused widespread protests both in the country and globally. Many of the protesters are voicing opposition to his deepening authoritarian rule, the conflict in Ukraine, and the election itself, which seemed rigged from the start.
The US has also criticized the election results, denouncing them as unfree and unfair. They’ve accused Russia of political repression and placing limitations on opposition candidates. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy likewise condemned Putin’s victory, saying that the only thing he wants is the pursuit of power.
In a victory speech at his campaign headquarters, Putin dismissed all criticism, as usual. He attributed it to ongoing conflicts and Western efforts to stop Russia’s progress.
The war in Ukraine was also a big subject in Putin’s speech. He emphasized fortifying the border against incursions by pro-Ukrainian military units and highlighted his future priorities. He mainly wants to increase Russia’s military capabilities. When questioned about the potential for direct conflict with NATO, Putin acknowledged the modern world’s uncertainties and stated that there are always risks of a full-scale third world war.
Regarding the death of Alexei Navalny, Putin claimed to have set up an exchange for Russian prisoners in the West before Navalny’s demise. He expressed regret over the outcome of the situation.
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