Putin says upcoming Duma vote should show nationwide support for the war
Putin said participation is a 'collective contribution' to victory and expects the most worthy candidates to prevail; voting runs 18–20 September.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said the upcoming parliamentary vote should help secure victory in the war with Ukraine and demonstrate national unity.
Putin's message to voters
In a video address he linked participation in the ballot to the war effort, arguing the vote would prove that the population backs Russian fighters and the country's course.
"Participation in the elections is our collective contribution to Russia's victory. The elections should show that millions of people stand behind our fighters and that we are a united people. I expect the most worthy candidates to win," he said in a video address.
Russia is holding parliamentary elections from 18 to 20 September. More than 110 million voters are registered to choose 450 deputies to the new State Duma.
Putin framed turnout as a demonstration of cohesion and support for state policy; he also called for the election of the candidates he described as most deserving.
The remarks highlight how the Kremlin is linking the ballot to the wider conflict and using the vote to showcase domestic backing for its actions.
Photo: DPA)
