Controversial Regional Vote in Ukraine Boosts Putin's Party

Russia concluded regional and municipal elections, including in annexed regions of Ukraine, which delivered strong support for President Vladimir Putin. The vote has been criticized for alleged vote rigging and Kyiv's claim that it was an illegal attempt by Moscow to tighten its grip over the regions. The Council of Europe called the vote a violation of international law. While Putin's United Russia party dominated the elections, strong opposition candidates were blocked from running. Reports of vote rigging and intimidation tactics against opposition candidates have surfaced. The Kremlin maintains that elections are free and fair, and that Putin is the most popular politician in Russia.