Ukraine Demands Global Non-Recognition of Russia's 'Elections' in Temporarily Occupied Territories

Ukraine issued a formal statement on September 22, 2026, condemning Russia's electoral process in the occupied regions as illegitimate. The statement was published by Ukrinform and ukrinform.net, two Ukrainian state news outlets. The Ukrainian government has consistently denied any legitimacy to Russia's control over these areas, which include parts of Donetsk and Luhansk. The 'elections' in question were held in the occupied territories under Russian administration. Ukraine and its allies have repeatedly criticized these elections as a farce, lacking any genuine democratic process. The international community has been urged to refrain from recognizing the results, which Ukraine claims would legitimize Russia's occupation. The move is part of Ukraine's ongoing diplomatic efforts to gain support for its cause and to pressure Russia into a political resolution. The situation remains a focal point of international tensions, with many countries still weighing their responses to Russia's actions.