Russia’s ruling United Russia party has maintained its firm grip on the State Duma, securing a commanding constitutional majority following the latest national elections. With over 95% of the ballots tallied, the party achieved 57.83% of the vote, positioning it to control nearly 80% of the 450-seat parliament. This outcome allows the administration to pass legislation and push through constitutional amendments without needing support from other factions. Despite the government framing these elections as a crucial test of public unity behind the war in Ukraine, the political landscape remains tightly managed, with the Central Electoral Commission reporting a 59.3% turnout while dismissing claims of irregularities from exiled opposition figures.

While the national results reinforced the status quo—with allied parties like the Communists and the ultra-nationalist LDPR rounding out the parliament—the anti-war Yabloko party managed a symbolic, albeit small, victory. Although they failed to secure a national seat, Yabloko successfully crossed the 5% threshold to enter the regional parliament in Novgorod. For a party that faced widespread candidate barring and operates within a system that largely suppresses dissent, this regional foothold is being celebrated as a vital success for those advocating for peace and freedom, proving that their message continues to resonate with a segment of the Russian electorate.