Dr Anton Saifullayeu, Deputy Director of the Institute of Central Europe, appeared on TVN24 BiS’s Dzień na Świecie programme, where he commented on the results of the parliamentary elections in Russia and their significance for the country’s domestic situation and regional security. According to the official results, the ruling United Russia party received 57.83% of the vote and won 355 seats in the 450-seat State Duma, retaining its constitutional majority.
Anton Saifullayeu noted that, under Russia’s political system, elections remain an important mechanism for legitimising the authorities. Their significance therefore goes beyond the outcome of the vote itself – they also provide an indication of declared public sentiment and serve as one of the indicators of the consolidation of the system of power, which is particularly significant amid the ongoing war against Ukraine.
The discussion also highlighted the significance of the elections in the context of the current military situation. In recent months, Ukrainian forces have conducted offensive operations on selected sections of the front while also increasing their capacity to carry out long-range strikes against targets deep inside Russian territory. The election result can therefore also be viewed as part of an effort to stabilise and consolidate Russia’s political system under wartime conditions. The expert also pointed to the possibility of a further intensification of Russian hybrid activities, including those targeting NATO countries neighbouring Russia.
Anton Saifullayeu for TVN24 BiS on the Results of the Elections in Russia and Their Significance for Regional Security