Vladimir Putin clinched an overwhelming win in Russia’s presidential election, claiming 88% of the votes. He continues his tenure, which began in 1999, positioning him to overtake Josef Stalin as the nation’s most enduring leader in more than 200 years.
According to exit polls and initial counts, the outcome reflects unprecedented support for Putin in post-Soviet Russia. Polls by FOM and VCIOM reported results close to 87-87.8%, which aligns with the first official results.
The election was taken amidst the severe conflict initiated by Putin’s invasion of Ukraine over two years ago, which he refers to as a “special military operation.” Throughout the election days, Ukraine’s countermeasures included targeting Russian oil facilities and border attempts, actions Putin has vowed to retaliate against.
Despite no genuine competition and Putin’s firm hold over Russian politics, the high voter turnout before the polls closed at 1800 GMT hinted at his desire for a resounding mandate. Turnout reportedly exceeded the 67.5% mark from 2018.
Opponents, echoing the late Alexei Navalny’s sentiments, demonstrated their opposition at noon, especially at foreign polling stations. Although turnout for these protests wasn’t independently verified, notable gatherings were evident in major cities and Russian embassies, with Navalny’s widow receiving a warm welcome in Berlin. Online platforms shared footage of these global demonstrations.
