How are rebels preventing presidential voting in Donetsk?

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Rebels are actively preventing presidential voting in Donetsk and other parts of eastern Ukraine through intimidation and threats, leading to the declaration of self-proclaimed "people's republics" outside of Kyiv's authority.

Scores of armed pro-Russian separatists have been actively obstructing the presidential election process in Donetsk and other eastern Ukrainian regions. These separatists have established control in these areas, declaring "people's republics" that operate independently of Kyiv's governance. Their actions have included intimidating and threatening the local population to prevent them from participating in the vote.
Separatist Control and "People's Republics"

In regions like Donetsk, an industrial centre with a population of one million, pro-Russian separatists have effectively prevented voting from taking place. These groups have declared "people's republics" in these territories, asserting a political status that is not recognised by the Ukrainian government in Kyiv. This assertion of control has been a significant factor in their ability to disrupt electoral processes.
Intimidation Tactics and Threats

The separatists have employed tactics designed to intimidate and threaten residents, thereby discouraging them from voting. These actions are part of a broader effort to undermine the authority of the Ukrainian government and assert their own control over the eastern regions. The atmosphere created by these threats has made it unsafe and unfeasible for many to exercise their right to vote.
Impact on Prominent Figures

The disruption extends to influential figures within the region. For instance, Ukraine's wealthiest individual, Rinat Akhmetov, who employs approximately 300,000 people through his coal and steel businesses, has been unable to return to Donetsk to vote. Separatists and their supporters have gathered outside his residence, highlighting the pervasive influence and control they exert in the area, despite Akhmetov's public denouncement of their actions.

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How are rebels preventing presidential voting in Donetsk?

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