At gunpoint, Ukrainians in occupied regions vote in Russia's election
Residents in Russia-occupied parts of Ukraine pressured to vote early for Vladimir Putin, facing coercion and detainment for not complying.
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read
Election officials in Russia-occupied parts of Ukraine have been going door-to-door, pushing residents to vote early in Russia’s presidential election, including for Vladimir Putin. Residents face coercion, with armed soldiers present during the voting process, limiting their ability to refuse or vote secretly. Those who don’t comply or speak out against the election are at risk, facing detainment in informal prisons. Observers anticipate significant vote-rigging to ensure high turnouts and support for Putin. The election, criticized by Kyiv, is seen as a tool to maintain power in a totalitarian system.