Voting has begun in Russia's wartime parliamentary election, with the main Kremlin-backed party expected to dominate the results. The election, held in the midst of ongoing conflict, sees no opposition candidates, reinforcing the government's grip on power. The vote includes regions seized from Ukraine, marking a first for Russia's electoral process.
Concerns over mobilisation have led many Russians to leave the country, with requests for emergency emigration assistance surging. Searches for information on how to leave Russia have reached their highest levels since early 2023. An automatic system now triggers exit bans, raising fears of forced conscription.
International reactions have also intensified, with the U.S. Imposing new sanctions targeting Russia's war efforts. These measures aim to weaken the Kremlin's financial support for the conflict and encourage diplomatic talks with Ukraine. Meanwhile, the United Nations has highlighted the use of sexual violence as a weapon in the war, most often linked to Russian forces.
The election is seen as a critical step in consolidating Russia's territorial gains and political control, despite growing domestic and international pressure.
