Moscow, September 17, 2026 – The Europe Today: Russian President Vladimir Putin has urged citizens to exercise their constitutional right to vote in the upcoming parliamentary elections, describing the poll as an important decision that will help shape the country’s future.
In an address published by the Kremlin on Wednesday, Putin called on Russians to make a considered and responsible choice, emphasizing that every voter’s voice would contribute to determining the composition of the federal parliament for the next five years.
The president said participation in the elections represented an act of civic responsibility and a contribution to strengthening the country. He also praised Russian servicemen participating in the ongoing military campaign in Ukraine, describing their courage and dedication as an example for the nation.
Putin said the election would demonstrate the unity of Russian society and its commitment to shared values and national interests. He urged voters to ensure that the election results reflected what he described as the maturity and resilience of Russian society.
The 2026 State Duma elections are scheduled for September 18–20, with 10 political parties contesting the 450 seats in Russia’s lower house of parliament.
The election is the first parliamentary vote to be held in Russia during the continuing conflict with Ukraine. Russia’s most recent presidential election was held in 2024, when Putin was declared the winner with 88 percent of the vote.
Putin also referred to security challenges facing Russia, accusing Kyiv of attempting to destabilize Russian society through attacks targeting civilian and energy infrastructure. He said Russia’s economic resilience, energy system and population would enable the country to withstand such pressures.
The president stressed the importance of public participation in the electoral process, saying that citizens’ choices would help determine the country’s political direction for the coming five-year parliamentary term.
