Putin, excited after his difficulty to vote online in Russia's elections: "Thank you very much"

Vladimir Putin, president of Russia, cast his vote in the legislative elections held this week, using the electronic voting system for the first time since 2021. The process, which he completed with some difficulty, was captured in a brief video released by the Kremlin showing him seated before a computer in his office. In the footage, Putin appears frustrated as he struggles with the operating system, eventually concluding his vote with a gesture of gratitude, saying, “Gracias, muchas gracias.” On social media, users noted that the system required activation, suggesting Putin might not have a legally valid copy of Windows. This method of voting has been employed by Putin in previous elections, including the 2021 parliamentary elections and the 2024 presidential race. During the current legislative elections, over one million voters in Moscow had already cast their ballots online within seven hours, according to preliminary data. The majority of these voters opted for remote voting, a practice common in the capital city. The election period spans three days, during which more than 111 million Russians across 89 regions will participate in choosing 450 deputies for the State Duma. Voters abroad can also exercise their right, with 333 polling stations set up in 152 countries. The first day of voting saw participation from several high-profile figures, including Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, and Mayor of Moscow Sergei Sobyanin. Sobyanin shared on social media that the initial results showed a high level of online voting, emphasizing the convenience and security of the digital process. He also highlighted the importance of voter turnout in contributing to the success of the war effort in Ukraine, a message echoed by Putin himself. According to official statistics, approximately 20% of registered voters have already participated in the elections. The electronic voting option has seen over 50% participation among those who chose it, indicating a growing reliance on digital methods. Polling stations opened in Moscow at 8:00 AM local time, nine hours later than in the easternmost regions of Chukotka and Kamchatka. In addition to the electoral process, the Kremlin has taken measures regarding foreign-owned businesses. A decree issued by Putin ordered the transfer of Russian assets of two major international companies, Auchan and Nestlé, into temporary administrative control. This decision follows the imposition of sanctions by European allies supporting Ukraine and attacks on Russian infrastructure. The management of these assets has been entrusted to a Russian company named L.E.V. Management, marking another step in the consolidation of control over foreign enterprises. The move is part of a broader strategy by the Kremlin to assert dominance over foreign investments, especially after the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. Over 1,000 international companies left Russia following the conflict’s onset, though some remained. The recent action against Auchan and Nestlé underscores the challenging environment for foreign businesses operating in the country. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that the decision was influenced by the involvement of these countries in military actions against Russia, including attacks on civilian infrastructure. While the ownership of the companies remains with their foreign proprietors, they lose the ability to independently manage their operations. This measure is intended to allow for future changes in ownership, potentially leading to full nationalization. Similar actions have been taken against other international firms, such as Carlsberg and Danone, reflecting a pattern of increasing control over foreign assets. The Russian government has also utilized this framework to generate revenue through forced sales and tax adjustments, benefiting close associates of the regime. As the elections continue, the political landscape remains complex, with multiple parties competing for representation. The ruling party, United Russia, aims to secure a dominant position, although independent polls suggest lower levels of support compared to official estimates. Meanwhile, opposition groups, such as the Communist Party, have criticized the use of electronic voting, viewing it as a tool for manipulation. The outcome of these elections will likely shape the direction of Russia’s domestic and foreign policies in the coming years.