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Russia's Central Election Commission Calls Duma Elections in Donbas and Novorossiya
Russia's Central Election Commission has set State Duma elections in the Donbas and Novorossiya regions for September 20, 2026, after security agencies deemed it possible under martial law. President Putin warned the vote will occur amid external threats seeking to destabilize Russian society.
Quick Facts
Who
Central Election Commission (CIC)
What
Elections to the State Duma have been scheduled
When
20 September 2026
Where
Donbas
- Elections to the State Duma have been scheduled
- Security agencies unanimously supported the elections
- Three-day voting is being considered
- Central Election Commission (CIC)
- Ella Pamfilova
Russia's Central Election Commission (CEC) has scheduled State Duma elections in the Donbas and Novorossiya regions for September 20, 2026, following consultations with the Defense Ministry, Federal Security Service (FSB), and regional heads. The decision comes despite the ongoing martial law in these territories.
CEC Chairwoman Ella Pamfilova announced at a commission meeting that security agencies unanimously supported holding the elections under wartime conditions. "They unanimously stated that holding elections for State Duma deputies in the reunited subjects during the period of martial law is possible," she said, as quoted by RIA Novosti.
President Vladimir Putin formally set the election date for September 20 and has previously warned that the vote will take place under challenging circumstances. He noted that external adversaries "will try to use any opportunity for a split and destabilization of Russian society," while expressing confidence that such attempts will be thwarted.
In late May, Pamfilova indicated that the CEC leans toward a three-day voting period for the September 2026 Duma elections. After the vote, the total number of seats in the lower house will remain unchanged at 450, with 225 elected by party lists and the other 225 by single-mandate districts. The new Duma's term will be five years.
Topics
Why This Matters
This decision signals Russia's intent to consolidate administrative and political control over occupied territories in Ukraine. For global readers, it underscores the Kremlin's long-term integration strategy, potentially complicating peace negotiations and international sanctions regimes. Businesses and investors with exposure to Russian assets must assess the heightened geopolitical risk in these regions.
Timeline & Sources
May 31, 2026
WireCEC chairwoman Pamfilova indicates preference for three-day voting in September 2026 Duma elections.
Jun 18, 2026
WireCEC, after consultations with Defense Ministry, FSB, and regional heads, schedules Duma elections in Donbas and Novorossiya for September 20, 2026.