Russia Barred Their Party, but These Antiwar Voices Are Still Standing

Live updates

1. 4h ago

   Russia Holds Parliamentary Elections Amid Antiwar Protests

   Russia is conducting parliamentary elections characterized by the inclusion of annexed Ukrainian regions and a high number of veterans on the ballot. While the Kremlin seeks to project stability and support for the war, antiwar voices continue to operate despite the banning of their political party. Protesters in Yerevan have gathered to chant "No War" as Russian citizens abroad cast their votes. International observers and critics describe the process as a sham, while Kyiv has formally denounced the inclusion of occupied territories in the vote.

   Why it matters

   These elections occur during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and serve as a barometer for domestic support. The Kremlin's strategy of placing veterans on the ballot attempts to link military service with political legitimacy. The outcome is widely seen as predictable, but the process reveals internal tensions regarding the war.

   What is confirmed

   • Russia included annexed regions in its parliamentary elections.
   • Antiwar protesters in Yerevan chanted "No War" during the voting process.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The Kremlin placed a large number of veterans on the ballot to prevent political backfire.
   • The election results are easy to guess and the process is a sham.

   What to watch next

   • Kyiv's formal diplomatic response to the inclusion of annexed regions.
   Sources used for this update (7)

   1. The New York Times — The Kremlin Has Put Lots of Veterans on the Ballot. Could It Backfire?
   2. The Washington Post — In Russia, the election result is easy to guess. Much else there is uncertain.
   3. theguardian.com — Ukraine war briefing: Kyiv denounces Russia’s inclusion of annexed regions in parliamentary elections
   4. France 24 — Live: Russian election enters final day in shadow of war in Ukraine
   5. The New York Times — Russia Barred Their Party, but These Antiwar Voices Are Still Standing
   6. euobserver.com — [Interview] Why does Putin bother with elections when everybody knows they are a sham? Russia expert explains weekend vote – and how it may escalate war
   7. www.thearmenianreport.com — Russian Voters Head to Polls in Yerevan for Russia’s Parliamentary Election as Protesters Chant ‘No War’
   confidence 80%