Zaporozhye's union to Russia referendum to be held when safety ensured
The head of the Zaporozhye regional administration Yevgeny Balitsky reveals on Monday that the referendum will take place when the residents' safety is guarateed.
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A Russian soldier guards an area at the Alley of Glory exploits of the heroes - natives of the Kherson region, who took part in the liberation of the region from the Nazi invaders, Kherson region, on May 20, 2022, with a replica of the Victory banner marking the 77th anniversary of the end of World War II right in the background (AP Photo)
The referendum in Zaporozhye region on joining Russia will take place when full security of the residents is guaranteed, the head of the Zaporozhye regional administration Yevgeny Balitsky said on Monday.
"The referendum will take place as soon as we are finally ready in terms of security for the residents of the Zaporozhye region. When we are confident that anyone can comfortably and safely take part in the voting," Balitsky wrote on Telegram.
Technical issues have been resolved so far. The polling stations have been equipped, the ballots have been printed, and the commissions have been formed, the regional administration head said.
"There is no doubt that the procedure will be fair, open and objective," Balitsky emphasized.
The official noted that 86% of the Zaporozhye residents back the region’s accession to Russia.
Read: Zaporozhye administration: We want Russian military bases permanently
Since the start of the war, the Russian military took control of the Azov part of Zaparozhye and Kherson, liberating large cities such as Kherson, Melitopol, and Berdiansk, as well as cutting off Kiev from the Sea of Azov.
Kherson and Zaparozhye had new administrations formed in them, with Russian TV channels and radio stations broadcasting there and trade and transport ties with Crimea being restored. Both regions have announced plans to become part of Russia.
