Russia's ruling party, United Russia, has emerged as the winner of the legislative elections, securing 57.5% of the vote after counting 71% of ballots. The Communist Party came second with 14%, followed by the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia with 8.7%. The final results and voter turnout are expected to be announced on Monday. United Russia is projected to maintain its two-thirds majority in the 450-seat Duma, allowing it to pass constitutional amendments.
The elections took place over three days, from September 18 to 20, in the first Duma elections since Russia's large-scale war in Ukraine began in 2022. The voting process was marred by reports of cyberattacks targeting voting systems and election infrastructure. Russian authorities claimed to have successfully repelled these attacks. The elections were also marked by restrictions on opposition voices, with many anti-war candidates barred from running.
On the final day of voting, Moscow and surrounding areas were hit by widespread drone attacks, which Russian authorities attributed to Ukraine. The attacks resulted in casualties and damage to several facilities, including an oil refinery and a residential building. Russia's defense ministry accused Ukraine of attempting to influence the election process, while Moscow's mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, stated that the attack aimed to disrupt the elections.
Ukrainian officials acknowledged responsibility for the drone attacks within Russia, which are part of the ongoing conflict between the two countries. The Duma elections are held every five years to choose members of Russia's lower house of parliament. Half of the 450 seats are filled through party lists, while the other half are elected from single-mandate constituencies.
The 2026 elections take place amid the continued Russia-Ukraine war and a restrictive political environment in Russia. Many anti-war candidates were barred from running, while some opposition parties participated in the elections. Russian authorities claim that the measures taken are based on electoral laws, but critics argue that they limited competition in the elections.
United Russia has maintained its majority in the Duma in previous elections. This vote is the first national parliamentary test since the start of the Ukraine war. The Kremlin views the turnout and results as a reflection of public support for its policies, while others argue that the limited political competition requires consideration of the electoral environment when interpreting the results.
The outcome of the elections grants United Russia a significant majority in the Duma, enabling it to push through legislation with minimal opposition. The party's dominance is expected to continue, with analysts watching for potential implications on Russia's domestic and foreign policy. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Key points
- United Russia party wins 57.5% of the vote in Duma elections.
- Party projected to maintain two-thirds majority in 450-seat Duma.
- Elections marked by cyberattacks, restrictions on opposition voices, and drone attacks attributed to Ukraine.
