Western governments expressed condemnation while China and North Korea offered congratulations to Vladimir Putin on his re-election victory, reflecting deepening geopolitical divides exacerbated by Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
The West criticized the election as unfair and undemocratic, citing repression of civil society and opposition, restrictions on freedom of expression, and the absence of free and fair conditions for the electoral process. France, Britain, and Germany voiced concerns over Putin’s control over media and political opponents’ removal.
The Kremlin dismissed Western criticism, emphasizing Putin’s overwhelming victory as a sign of popular support. However, France and Britain condemned Russia’s decision to hold the election in occupied Ukrainian regions, seen as a breach of international law and Ukraine’s sovereignty.
In contrast, Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un congratulated Putin, emphasizing their commitment to deepening partnerships. Meanwhile, the White House described Russia’s election as “not free nor fair,” with President Joe Biden yet to comment, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy questioning the legitimacy of Putin’s rule.
The European Union is expected to endorse economic sanctions against individuals implicated in the mistreatment and death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock highlighted the need for accountability in Navalny’s death, which his family and supporters attribute to Putin’s regime.
