Putin’s United Russia will win – but vote tally, turnout and level of coercion will tell the real story of Russia’s wartime elections

Russia’s 2026 parliamentary elections will take place over three days, starting Sept. 18.

By: Regina Smyth, Indiana University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: September 17, 2026

Words: 1,338

Last Updated: 1 month ago

By Regina Smyth, Indiana University

Russia’s parliamentary elections will take place on Sept. 18-20, 2026, amid the ongoing war with Ukraine. Given the backdrop of an energy crisis, battlefield failures in Ukraine and fears of more national conscription at home, you might think that the Kremlin should have reason for concern.

Yet few observers believe the result is in doubt: Russian President Vladimir Putin’s United Russia party will undoubtedly win. Anything less …

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