September 30
In the eastern and southern regions of Ukraine, which are under the control of Russian forces, preliminary counts from pro-Russian authorities indicated overwhelming support for annexation. In the self-proclaimed republics of Donetsk and Lugansk, the reported percentages were exceptionally high, with Donetsk showing 98.05% and Lugansk 97.79% of voters backing the move, according to the Interfax agency.
Further figures from the region of Kherson indicated strong approval as well, with 12% of ballots reviewed and 97.47% in favor of incorporation. In Zaporizhia, about 20% of votes were tallied and 98% supported joining Russia. Moscow asserted that the land would be added to the country, signaling readiness to formalize the acquisition through legislative and executive channels. A Kremlin spokesperson stated that the legal departments and authorities were prepared for the next steps on the path toward integration.
Sources cited by the Russian parliament, including the official news agency TASS, suggested that the formal inclusion could occur on September 30. The declarations were met with widespread international skepticism. Ukraine and many members of the international community rejected the legitimacy of the referendums and the process that led to them, arguing that the votes were conducted under conditions of occupation and without legitimate authority for these territories.
Across the international stage, the United Nations, the European Union, the United States, and numerous other governments voiced opposition to the process and refused to recognize the results. The Kyiv government has maintained that the referendums do not alter Ukraine’s sovereignty over the territories in question and has pledged to continue its efforts to reclaim control where Russia maintains a military presence. The Ukrainian leadership reiterated that sovereignty and territorial integrity remain central to the country’s stance, and that military and diplomatic measures would continue in response to the developments. Ukraine has consistently asserted its right to restore control over its borders and to respond to actions affecting its territorial integrity with appropriate measures, in coordination with allied partners and through international forums.
Throughout the unfolding situation, observers and policymakers have debated the legal status of the referendums, the procedures used, and the repercussions for regional security. Analysts highlight the potential consequences for energy routes, trade dynamics, and regional stability. The discussions also focus on the humanitarian implications for residents in affected areas, concerns about forced participation, and the long-term implications for the border configuration in the region. While governments weigh legal arguments and strategic interests, the broader question remains how the international community will respond to the evolving reality on the ground and what steps will be taken to preserve regional peace and uphold international norms.