Russian President Vladimir Putin's administration is planning to hold referendums in the autumn on the integration of the self-proclaimed 'Luhansk People’s Republic', 'Donetsk People’s Republic', and occupied territories of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson Oblasts into Russia, originally scheduled for 11 September.

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s administration has not yet given up on the idea of holding referendums in the autumn on the integration of self-proclaimed 'Luhansk People’s Republic', 'Donetsk People’s Republic', and occupied territories of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson Oblasts into Russia.

The Kremlin is unsure how to conduct referendums in Ukraine and is preparing for their possible postponement from September 11, citing that the Russian army is 'stumbling' in its advance.

Russia controls only 60% of Donetsk Oblast, but intends to proceed with annexation or delay it; similar scenarios are planned for Kherson and Zaporizhzhia oblasts.

Russian officials in May-June expected full control of Donetsk Oblast by September to prepare for referendums but misjudged the situation on the front lines.

Defence Minister Alexei Reznikov stated that the only territorial compromise with Russia is Ukraine's return to 1991 borders, including Crimea.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy declared that negotiations with Russia are an ultimatum and that referring to 'referendums' would close the door for Russia in future negotiations.