"Russian Elections: From Vandalism to Occupation - The Aftermath of Putin's Fifth Term"

Millions of Russian citizens are participating in a presidential election that is widely seen as a sham, ensuring Vladimir Putin's fifth term as president. The election, tightly controlled by the Kremlin, features candidates vetted by the government and a process that limits genuine opposition. Critics warn that the election lacks true democracy, with opposition politicians jailed, killed, or in exile. The Kremlin aims to maintain an air of legitimacy without alienating the majority of Russians, while attempts to organize elections in annexed Ukrainian regions are deemed illegal.