Russia's Putin declared winner in presidential vote

The Central Election Commission issued final results, showing that Putin won nearly 77 per cent of the vote. Communist candidate Pavel Grudinin came second with nearly 12 per cent.

The vote was tainted by widespread reports of ballot-box stuffing and forced voting. Ella Pamfilova, chairwoman of the Election Commission, said at the commission's session that the vote was free and fair.

Sunday's win will keep Putin in office until 2024.