Russia’s parliamentary election enters final day under drone attack shadow
Russian authorities reported more than 1,600 intercepted drones, at least two deaths and damage to a Moscow refinery as voters completed a tightly controlled three-day poll.
Russia’s parliamentary election entered its third and final day on 20 September, with the ruling United Russia party expected to retain its dominance. President Vladimir Putin has presented the vote as a test of support for his policies and the war in Ukraine.
Russian authorities said more than 1,600 drones had been intercepted and shot down, including 450 targeting Moscow. They reported at least two deaths and damage to a facility at the Moscow oil refinery.
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the attacks were intended to disrupt the election and accused Ukraine of responsibility. Those claims, including the reported casualty figures and damage, have not been independently verified.
The State Duma election is the first since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. It is expected to be presented by the Kremlin as evidence of public backing, although critics say Russia’s political system leaves little room for dissent.
The poll reportedly includes residents of Ukrainian regions that Moscow illegally annexed after the invasion. The developments came as the United States approved a potential US$2.68 billion sale of air-defence equipment to Ukraine.
