Russian State Duma election preparations

Russia is preparing for State Duma elections scheduled for September 2026. Analysts suggest these elections will serve as a critical test of regime stability amid economic crises, budget deficits, and low public trust. To manage the transition and the ongoing war in Ukraine, senior officials have reportedly discussed the potential introduction of martial law via presidential decree to enable fuller state mobilization and tighter control over civil data.

In addition to elections within Russia, the Kremlin is planning to hold State Duma elections across occupied Ukrainian territories. Ukrainian officials, including Andriy Kovalenko of the National Security and Defense Council, characterize these efforts as a propaganda tool intended to pseudo-legalize the occupation. Reports indicate that occupying authorities aim for a voter turnout exceeding 65-70 percent, with the ruling United Russia party expected to receive at least 70 percent of the vote. There are also indications that anti-war parties, such as Yabloko, may be excluded from the process.