UK Defence Intelligence reported that Russia is holding sham elections in occupied parts of Ukraine from 8-10 September, parallel to Russian elections, with voting already begun in Mariupol and parts of Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

The Russian authorities in the occupied parts of Ukraine are planning to hold sham elections there on 8-10 September – in parallel with the elections in Russia. Voting has already begun in Mariupol and parts of Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

Over 1,000 candidates have been identified, but there is a lack of qualified, experienced, and willing candidates according to some reports. There is also an absence of independent candidates that are not members of the Kremlin endorsed parties.

Kremlin polls indicate United Russia is predicted to gain 80 per cent of the vote in the four occupied regions.

United Russia party will likely command the majority of seats in an attempt to secure the Kremlin's hold and influence over the occupied regions.

Russia plans to hold sham elections on Sept. 8-10 in occupied parts of Ukraine

United Russia predicted to gain 80% of votes in occupied parts of Ukraine

Over 1,000 candidates identified but lack of qualified candidates

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he had visited his war-torn country's frontline eastern Donetsk region, posting a video of himself meeting soldiers