The results released by the election commission on Monday revealed that President Vladimir Putin has clinched a fifth term with a significant majority of votes, in an election characterized by minimal suspense following a severe crackdown on opposition figures and freedom of speech, reminiscent of Soviet-era tactics.

With only nominal challengers and a harsh crackdown on dissenting voices, Putin appeared poised to extend his nearly twenty-five-year tenure for another six years. Despite limited opportunities for protest, Russians turned out in significant numbers outside polling stations on Sunday, the final day of the election, seemingly responding to an opposition call to voice their dissatisfaction with the president.

Putin has been at the helm of Russia as either president or prime minister since December 1999, overseeing a period characterized by international military interventions and a growing intolerance towards dissent.

Following the release of preliminary results on Monday, Putin celebrated the overwhelming support as a testament to the “trust” and “hope” placed in him, although critics viewed the outcome as further evidence of the predetermined nature of the election.

“At present, we have numerous tasks on our agenda. However, I want to emphasize to everyone: Despite the challenges we face, no one has succeeded in intimidating us or suppressing our determination and sense of self,” Putin stated during a meeting with his campaign team following the closure of the polls.