European Parliament Refuses to Recognize Russian State Duma Elections

The European Parliament has adopted a resolution refusing to recognize the results of the State Duma elections in Russia, held on September 18-20. The resolution, passed with 482 votes in favor, 41 against, and 39 abstentions, deemed the elections 'unfree and unfair' due to voting on occupied territories of Ukraine, lack of independent observation, and absence of real political competition. The European Parliament also called on EU countries to limit official contacts with the new State Duma and expand sanctions against those involved in organizing the elections and political repression.