Croatians are casting their votes today in a high-stakes presidential run-off, with incumbent President Zoran Milanovic leading in the polls against Dragan Primorac, the candidate from the ruling Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ).

Polling stations across the country opened at 0600 GMT and will close at 1800 GMT, with exit polls anticipated soon after.

Approximately 3.8 million Croats are eligible to participate in this decisive second round. In the first round held two weeks ago, Milanovic secured 49.1% of the votes, while Primorac garnered 19.35%. A recent poll by Nova TV Daily News on Friday indicated that Milanovic, representing the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has a commanding lead with 67.4% support compared to Primorac's 26.6%.

The role of Croatia's president, while largely ceremonial, includes significant influence over foreign policy, defense, and security issues. However, the president lacks the power to veto laws passed by the parliament.

Milanovic, known for his populist stance and previous tenure as prime minister, has had a contentious relationship with current Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, with frequent public disputes over policy directions. Their confrontations have often been marked by sharp exchanges, highlighting the political divide in Croatia.

Preliminary results are expected around 1900 GMT, with official outcomes due in the days following. This election could reflect the public's stance on the current government's direction and set the tone for Croatia's political landscape in the coming years. (ILKHA)