United Russia party nears constitutional majority in Russian elections

The Kremlin-aligned United Russia party has secured a significant victory in Russia's legislative elections, potentially achieving a constitutional majority in the State Duma. Preliminary results indicate the party could obtain approximately 355 of the 450 available seats, surpassing the 301 required to introduce constitutional reforms.

This outcome provides President Vladimir Putin with a mandate to continue the military campaign in Ukraine and maintain his current foreign policy. The election results contrast with polling from the Levada Center, which suggested that 59% of Russians favor a cessation of hostilities and the start of peace negotiations.

While opposition groups have raised allegations of irregularities, the ruling party's performance marks its strongest result in 25 years. The Communist Party of Russia emerged as the second most voted party with 13.92%, followed by the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia and New People. The election took place amid drone attacks in Moscow and reports of internet disruptions.