In the aftermath of a highly contested presidential election, Russian Leader Vladimir Putin gave a speech on Red Square to commemorate his victory and the controversial decade-long annexation of Crimea.
Alongside Putin were the election’s nominal contenders, loyal political figures such as Vladislav Davankov, Nikolai Kharitonov, and Leonid Slutsky, who ostensibly challenged him but were in reality allies.
These individuals expressed admiration for Putin and pledged their allegiance to him.
Russia’s presidential election, which spanned three days and culminated on March 17, was concluded by the Russian Central Election Commission declaring Putin the winner with 87.28% of the vote. The election process was heavily criticized for being neither transparent nor legitimate.
During his victory speech, Putin extolled occupied Crimea as a symbol of “Russian tradition and pride,” and was lauded by his so-called opponents for the acquisition of the Ukrainian territory.
Putin also announced that he had “restored” a railway connection between the Russian port city of Rostov-on-Don and Berdiansk, situated in the Zaporizhzhia region of occupied Ukraine, near the coast of the Black Sea, approximately 40 miles from Mariupol.
The phrase “Glory to Russia” marked the end of his address, followed by the Russian national anthem.
During the so-called election, a significant number of Ukrainians were reportedly compelled to cast their votes through coercion, particularly in Crimea and newly annexed regions in 2022, such as sections of Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk, and Luhansk.
Following the conclusion of the election in Russia, Putin reaffirmed his intentions for the ongoing full-scale war in Ukraine and made renewed threats against Western nations.
A mere handful of autocratic leaders extended their congratulations to Putin on his victory.
FAQ
Were the Russian elections considered free and fair?
No, the elections were widely criticized as neither free nor fair.
What did Putin say about Crimea in his speech?
Putin described occupied Crimea as “Russia’s tradition and pride.”
Did anyone other than Putin’s allies run in the election?
Putin’s allies, such as Vladislav Davankov, Nikolai Kharitonov, and Leonid Slutsky, were the nominal contenders in the election and supported him.
What percentage of the vote did Putin receive?
According to the Russian Central Election Commission, Putin received 87.28% of the vote.
Conclusion
The rally on Red Square served as a platform for President Putin to assert his electoral success and the continuation of his policies in Crimea and Ukraine, amidst widespread international criticism. The elections and the subsequent rallying of support symbolize Russia’s internal political narrative, which remains contentious on the global stage.
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