The process of “voting” in the pseudo-elections for the Russian president on the temporarily occupied territories (VOT) of Ukraine has started ahead of schedule – the Russian “authorities” are trying to actively involve local residents in the “expression of will”.
According to recent reports, the British intelligence has assessed the likelihood of a “high turnout” in the Russian presidential elections on VOT in Ukraine. This news has caused concern and raised questions about the legitimacy of these so-called elections.
The VOT in Ukraine, which includes Crimea and parts of the Donbass region, has been under Russian occupation since 2014. This occupation is not recognized by the international community and is considered a violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Russian government has attempted to legitimize their control over these territories by holding “elections”, but these actions are widely seen as illegitimate and a violation of international law.
The fact that the VOT in Ukraine is being included in the Russian presidential elections is a clear attempt by the Russian government to further solidify their control over these territories. By involving local residents in the voting process, they are trying to create an illusion of support for their occupation and annexation of Crimea.
However, it is important to note that the majority of the population in these territories are Ukrainian citizens who have been subjected to intimidation and human rights violations by the Russian authorities. Many have been forced to flee their homes and are unable to exercise their right to vote freely and fairly.
The recent report from the British intelligence, which suggests a high turnout on VOT, is concerning as it raises questions about the methods being used to manipulate the voting process. It is widely believed that the Russian government is using various tactics to coerce and manipulate the local population into voting for their preferred candidate.
Despite these efforts, it is important to remember that the VOT in Ukraine is not a legitimate process and does not reflect the true will of the people in these territories. The international community has repeatedly called for the withdrawal of Russian forces from Crimea and the restoration of Ukraine’s sovereignty over its territories. Any attempt by the Russian government to legitimize their control through these pseudo-elections is simply a facade and will not be recognized by the international community.
In conclusion, the Russian government’s attempts to involve the VOT in Ukraine in their presidential elections are a clear violation of international law and a desperate attempt to legitimize their occupation. The British intelligence report only further highlights the illegitimacy of these elections and calls for the international community to continue to support Ukraine in its efforts to regain control over its territories. It is crucial for the international community to continue to condemn these actions and stand in solidarity with Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
