Russia Disqualifies Key Antiwar Candidate from Presidential Election

The disqualification of Boris Nadezhdin, the only serious electoral threat to Vladimir Putin, highlights the Kremlin's tight control over the political landscape.

On Feb. 8, Russia’s Central Election Committee disqualified Boris Nadezhdin, Putin's main electoral opponent, citing invalid signatures.
Nadezhdin, known for his opposition to the war against Ukraine, attracted significant public support, contrasting with the lack of enthusiasm for Putin.
The disqualification raises concerns about the legitimacy of the upcoming presidential election, with Putin facing only nominal opposition.
Russian society shows signs of unrest, with mass demonstrations and skepticism about Putin's rule, despite the Kremlin's efforts to maintain a facade of unity.
The move may have broader implications for Russia's international standing and Putin's legitimacy, both domestically and globally.