Putin wins Russian presidential poll with overwhelming 87.97% support

President Vladimir Putin has clinched victory in the Russian presidential election, securing an overwhelming 87.97% of the vote, according to preliminary official results released today.

The news sparked immediate reactions from global leaders, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemning the election as a mere facade.

Accusing Putin of pursuing absolute power, Zelenskyy stated, “It is clear to everyone in the world that this figure, as it has already often happened in the course of history, is simply sick for power and is doing everything to rule forever.” He called for international accountability, suggesting Putin should face trial in The Hague.

The White House swiftly weighed in, characterizing the victory as evidence of flawed democratic processes.

A spokesperson noted Putin’s suppression of political opponents and interference with electoral competition, remarking, “Elections are obviously not free nor fair when the leader has imprisoned political opponents and prevented others from running against him.”

Meanwhile, the UK Foreign Office, in a statement shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), condemned Russia’s conduct, particularly highlighting the decision to hold elections in Ukrainian territory.

The statement underscored the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense of democracy, promising continued humanitarian, economic, and military aid.

As Putin’s victory reverberates across international corridors, concerns over the state of democracy in Russia and its implications for regional stability persist.

The landslide win underscores Putin’s enduring grip on power and raises questions about the future trajectory of Russian politics.