Vladimir Putin claims landslide Russian election victory

Vladimir Putin declared victory in Russia's presidential vote, securing 87% of the vote despite widespread criticism of the election's fairness and opposition from the United States. The election saw a high turnout, with 74% of the electorate participating.

Putin dismissed Western criticism, attributing it to geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding Ukraine. He emphasized his focus on the war in Ukraine and strengthening defense capabilities.

Critics, including the US, Ukrainian President Zelenskiy, and German officials, condemned the election as lacking legitimacy due to Putin's control and suppression of opposition. The Russian opposition, led by Navalny's team, called for protests, resulting in long queues at polling stations and expressions of dissent across Russia and abroad.

Despite Putin's overwhelming victory, concerns over electoral manipulation, arrests of protesters, and pressure on voters persisted, highlighting ongoing challenges to political freedom and democracy in Russia.

Putin's potential to extend his rule until 2036 under constitutional changes further fueled debate over his authoritarian leadership. By 2029 his tenure will have surpassed that of Joseph Stalin, who ruled the Soviet Union for 29 years, making Putin the country’s longest-serving leader since the Russian empire.