Four Ukrainian provinces that Russia unilaterally annexed last year are preparing to hold Russian-led elections. It is part of the Russian regional elections, which end on October 10.
In June, the European Union accused Russia of planning elections in Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporizhia and Kherson. It said such a move would “seriously violate the United Nations Charter and severely undermine Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
Reuters reported that a polling station was set up in Mariupol, Donetsk region, on August 31, and some residents cast their votes.
In Belarus, near the Polish border, Russian-led forces are conducting military exercises. A few weeks ago, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned Poland that any “invasion” to the Belarusian capital Minsk would be considered an attack on Russia.
According to the Ukrainian Air Force, Russia attacked the central province of Vinnitsa with two Kalibr cruise missiles, one of which was shot down. Ukrainian forces continue to advance towards Melitopol, south of eastern Bakhmut, the General Staff said.
Original title:Ukraine Recap: Russia Prepares for Elections in Occupied Regions (excerpt)
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2023-09-01 10:56:49
