Lavrov Warns West May Target 2026 Duma Vote, Says U.S. Rejects ‘European’ Democracy

The foreign minister used a party commission forum to signal preparations for perceived Western meddling ahead of the 2026 parliamentary vote.

Overview

Sergey Lavrov told a United Russia commission that Moscow expects attempts from Western actors to influence Russia’s 2026 State Duma elections.
He asserted that the United States no longer wants democracy as he says it is understood in Europe.
Lavrov claimed Western efforts employed artificial intelligence against Russia during the presidential elections and said authorities must be ready for similar tactics.
He argued Russia’s electoral process is under special scrutiny from Western geopolitical “engineers,” emphasizing the need for vigilance.
He criticized Western statements on Ukraine, Armenia, and Moldova, citing comments by President Donald Trump, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as evidence of interference-minded intent.