Putin wants to use “record victory” in “elections” for protracted war in Ukraine – ISW

How Putin can use the “victory”/Getty Images

Vladimir Putin, after the so-called victory in the “elections”, is trying to create information conditions for a protracted war in Ukraine. After all, even in the occupied territories, the majority of the population allegedly “voted” for him.

However, such an “expression of will” was not legal. In addition, there are many Russian soldiers in the occupied territories, so the vote was forced in nature.

What ISW said after the elections Putin

Putin is trying to use the reported record levels of voter turnout and support for his candidacy to create information preconditions for a protracted war in Ukraine, analysts say.

According to them, Putin and Russian officials urged , they say, the “record turnout” of voters and “high public support” demonstrates the unity of Russia and trust in Putin.

Moreover, as expected, Putin allegedly scored 88.12% – 95.23%. This came as Russian officials likely falsified record-high support for the dictator in the occupied territories. In addition, there are a large number of Russian military personnel there, so the elections were essentially forced.

Putin is likely continuing to try to create information conditions for justifying the long-term conflict and long-term occupation of Ukraine under the guise of “protecting” civilians in occupied Ukraine, who are threatened only by a Russian invasion, said ISW.

What is known about Putin’s “elections”

• During March 15 – 17, the so-called Putin “elections” were held in Russia. 87.28% of voters allegedly voted for him. The dictator will rule for his fifth term.
• The world is in no hurry to recognize these “elections,” because Putin organized voting in the temporarily occupied territories. And in Ukraine, during martial law, elections are impossible.
• Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski reacted to Putin’s election. He trolled the dictator: “Personally, I was disappointed with Vladimir Putin. I expected him to get at least 101% of the votes.”
• In Germany they said they would not name Putin “president” of Russia.