Russian Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov observed a significant increase in interest among Russians in the country's domestic and foreign policy issues, as evidenced by the near-record turnout at the presidential elections.
Speaking to reporters at the end of the polling station at the embassy, Antonov noted, "I believe that today, in our embassy, as well as in other embassies of the Russian Federation, a very good holiday was celebrated. The feeling is that these elections have demonstrated a growing concern among the populace about what is happening in the homeland and the direction of the country's foreign policy, surpassing the level of interest observed in previous years."
Antonov also highlighted the increased electoral activity of the Russian diaspora in the United States. "I don't know what the result of the vote in Washington will be. All I can say is that our diaspora has perked up. It has stirred up and people began to believe that the fate of the country depends on their vote," he said.
The ambassador expressed his satisfaction with the participation of all employees of the Russian diplomatic mission in the elections, except for eight who were on vacation and voted at other polling stations. He thanked his colleagues for organizing the voting, emphasizing their dedication and efficiency.
Antonov also mentioned the successful implementation of children's corners at the polling station, noting the positive reception of the initiative by children. He clarified that the initiative was not intended to bribe voters but to enhance the voting experience for children.
The Russian presidential elections, held from March 15 to 17, marked the first time they were conducted over three days using remote electronic voting, available in about a third of the country's regions. Four candidates contested for the position of head of state: Vladimir Putin, Vladislav Davankov, Leonid Slutsky, and Nikolai Kharitonov.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Valery Sharifulin/TASS
Based on materials from TASS