Vladimir Putin Poised to Secure New Term in Russian Election Amid Ukraine Conflict

Russia enters the final day of its presidential election with Vladimir Putin poised to clinch a new term to pursue his war in Ukraine and confrontation with the West. Turnout has already exceeded 59%, state TV reported early Sunday, citing Russia’s Central Election Commission. Putin faces no real opposition, but the Kremlin is pushing for a high voter turnout to bolster his victory. Putin, already Russia’s longest-serving leader since Stalin, eyes another six-year term in the midst of the war in Ukraine. Russia’s pressing advantage as it continues its offensive against Ukraine. Despite a lack of serious challengers, Putin’s re-election isn’t devoid of tension, with Ukraine carrying out drone attacks on key Russian infrastructure ahead of the vote. Separately, Russia said it thwarted an attempted incursion by fighters near the Ukrainian border. Putin downplays the prospects for halting the war in Ukraine, emphasizing the need for security guarantees as the basis for any negotiation. The election in occupied parts of Ukraine drew criticism from Kyiv, calling the votes illegal. Allies of Alexey Navalny, the late opposition leader, urge supporters to protest Putin’s election at polling stations. Despite criticism of Russia’s democracy, the Kremlin remains defiant, refusing to admit any faults.