According to preliminary results announced today by Ella Pamfilova, Chair of Russia's Central Election Commission, with over 95% of votes counted, United Russia leads with 57,83% of the vote, an increase from the 49,8% the party achieved in 2021.

The Communist Party of the Russian Federation secured 13,84% of the votes, the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia (LDPR) received 8,9%, New People gained 7,94%, and A Just Russia obtained 4,95%.

These percentages mean United Russia will control 355 out of the 450 seats in the Russian State Duma, surpassing the record of 343 seats the party set in 2016.

Election committee members counting votes at a polling station on 20/9. Photo: TASS

This marks Russia's first parliamentary election since the conflict in Ukraine began in 2/2022. Voters re-elected all 450 seats in the Russian State Duma from 18/9 to 20/9. President Vladimir Putin had previously urged citizens to participate, viewing the election as an expression of support for Russian military personnel and a "response to those who seek to weaken Russia".

Dmitry Medvedev, Chairman of United Russia, stated on 20/9 that his party had "performed very well". He added, "Now, we must implement the President's decisions."

By Huyen Le (AFP, TASS, Reuters)