On October 8, 2026, the European Parliament adopted a resolution declaring the new Russian State Duma illegitimate. The resolution was supported by 482 members, with 41 voting against and 39 abstaining.
Reasons for Declaring Illegitimacy
Members of the European Parliament noted that the voting in the new State Duma took place in an atmosphere of fear and repression. The elections lacked:
- alternative candidates;
- independent media;
- observers.
These factors, according to the European parliamentarians, cast doubt on the legitimacy of the elections held.
Condemnation of Elections in Occupied Territories
The European Parliament also condemned the so-called elections that took place in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, as well as in Transnistria, Abkhazia, and South Ossetia. These actions are considered violations of international law and Ukraine's sovereignty.
Calls to Action
Members of the European Parliament urged all EU member states to refrain from any official contacts with the new State Duma and its members. They also opposed the normalization of relations with Russia without achieving a fair and lasting peace in Ukraine.