Оccupation authorities in Zaporizhzhia Oblast announce start of preparations for sham "referendum" to join Russia

The so-called head of the occupied part of the Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Vladimir Rogov, signed an order to start preparations for a pseudo-referendum on "reunification" with Russia, reported propagandist media RIA Novosti.

Rogov announced the signing of the order at the "We are together with Russia" public forum. Attendees at the event were asked if they agreed with a "referendum" and it appeared that everyone in attendance raised their hands.

Background

At the end of July, the occupation authorities in Zaporizhzhia Oblast "issued an order" to create so-called election commissions to hold a "referendum". In addition, local residents are invited to help in the organization.

According to early reports, a pseudo-referendum on "joining the Russian Federation" is scheduled for September. The Ukrainian authorities warn that the actions of the occupiers are legally void, and criminal liability is provided for cooperation with the enemy.

Intelligence reported that in the temporarily occupied large settlements in the southern part of Zaporizhzhia Oblast, representatives of the occupation authorities are looking for collaborators who will create a crowd scene at so-called spontaneous meetings in support of the "referendum".

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy earlier said that if Moscow proceeds with the so-called "referenda" in the temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories that would put an end to any negotiations with the aggressor state.