Even if thats true (spoiler, it isnt) there have been plenty of free, internationally recognized (not just by the west), elections since them.
You know how Putin retains his power? He didnt convice the population that he is the best. He conviced them that it does not matter.
https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2022/03/22/putin-disinformation-apathy-00018974
He was in a position of power, and took advantage of that said position of power. It may not be you typical alley rape but its sexual assault (ps i know nothing about laws, #notlegaladvice)
@dwalin
@lemmy.world