Updated

Russia began three days of voting (September 18-20) for its 450-seat State Duma, with the first polling stations opening in Kamchatka and Chukotka. Putin has cast the vote as a barometer of public support for the war and urged Russians to participate, while authorities expect a coordinated turnout push; ruling party United Russia has also enlisted high-profile figures such as NHL star Alexander Ovechkin, who appeared in a campaign video saying he supports his country and wishes everyone 'peace and love.' Independent media report that the elections have begun amid abductions of observers, coercion of public-sector workers to vote for the ruling party, and disruptions to communications, with authorities potentially restricting mobile networks and internet access during the September 18-21 voting period. Observers describe widespread signs of electoral fraud, reinforcing concerns that the vote offers little genuine competition.