The governors of three federal subjects – Penza, Transbaikal and Irkutsk – have declared a high state of alert because of the gas crisis, a move that permits them among other things postponing elections, including for the Duma. But Putin has indicated that he plans for the September vote to take place as scheduled, the Meduza portal reports.

Because Putin’s commitment to hold the vote on time is almost certain to be determinative, some may be inclined to view this report as largely........

© Eurasia Review