Kremlin declares war on United States as Putin secures 5th term

The Kremlin declared that it sees itself at war with the United States due to its involvement in the Ukraine conflict, dismissing US criticism of the Russian elections. Vladimir Putin secured a record fifth term as president with 87.8% of the vote, the highest in post-Soviet Russian history, amid allegations of political repression. Despite concerns, voter turnout exceeded 2018 levels, and supporters gathered at Russian diplomatic missions worldwide.