Putin Says Duma Elections Will Proceed as Scheduled Amid Military Operation
Vladimir Putin addressed Russians ahead of State Duma elections, saying the vote will follow the law and that residents of Donbas and Novorossiya will take part for the first time.
Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the nation ahead of elections to the State Duma, along with votes for regional legislative assemblies, regional heads and municipal bodies.
In his remarks, Putin said the elections would be conducted strictly in line with the law and within the established timeframes.
He noted that the campaign is taking place against the backdrop of the special military operation. According to Putin, residents of Donbas and Novorossiya will elect State Duma deputies for the first time since their reunification with Russia.
The president also said he was confident that soldiers and officers engaged in combat operations would take an active part in the voting.
Putin said the outcome would show that millions of people stand behind Russia's fighters, describing the country as a united people bound by shared values, historical memory and love for the Motherland. He added that no one would succeed in dividing or intimidating Russians, or in undermining the state and its socio-political system.