"Putin's Unchallenged Reign: Russians Abroad Divided as Election Extends Rule"

Russians head to the polls in an election expected to extend President Vladimir Putin's rule, with little suspense as his opponents are in jail, in exile, or deceased. Observers have little expectation of a free and fair election, as independent monitoring is limited. The election is taking place against the backdrop of a ruthless crackdown on dissent, with the war in Ukraine playing a significant role. The opposition has urged voters to show discontent by protesting at the polls, but the crackdown has made it difficult for the real mood of the people to be reflected in the election.