Russia holds parliamentary vote in areas it seized from Ukraine in the war

Russia's parliamentary election has taken a controversial turn by being held in areas of Ukraine it seized and illegally annexed since the start of its full-scale invasion over four years ago. This move underscores Moscow's continued efforts to assert control over these territories despite international condemnation and Ukraine's refusal to recognize the annexations. Such actions highlight the ongoing geopolitical tensions and the broader implications for regional stability and global diplomatic relations, as the international community largely views these elections as illegitimate.