Putin accuses Ukraine of 'turning into dictatorship' over lack of elections
Photo: Russian President Vladimir Putin (Getty Images)
Russian President Vladimir Putin has made another round of accusations against Ukraine, speaking about elections and claiming that the country has "turned into a dictatorship," according to the Smotri Telegram channel.
Kremlin leader's accusations
During his speech, the Russian leader once again resorted to fabrications and attacks against Ukraine's leadership.
In his view, Ukraine's current government has lost its democratic character.
"How can today's regime defend democracy when it has itself turned into a dictatorship?" Putin said.
He also expressed outrage that the Ukrainian authorities are not holding elections in the country while allegedly "trying to interfere" with Russia.
Why elections cannot be held in Ukraine
Russian claims about the "illegitimacy" of Ukraine's government are regularly used by Russian propaganda in attempts to discredit Ukraine internationally.
Holding any elections in Ukraine is prohibited by law while martial law is in effect, under the Electoral Code and the Law "On the Legal Regime of Martial Law."
The main reasons elections cannot currently be held include the safety of civilians and people near the front line, Russia's ongoing massive attacks, and the millions of Ukrainians living abroad.
Putin's plans for Ukraine
The Kremlin's attempts to promote claims about the "illegitimacy" of Ukraine's government are part of a broader strategy.
As previously reported by RBC-Ukraine, the EU has exposed Putin's main goal in the war against Ukraine: Moscow seeks to trigger a political collapse in Ukraine to fully seize the country.
At the same time, Western officials say that even mobilization would not help Putin achieve his goals.
