Kyrylo Budanov, Head of the Office of the President, has strongly opposed the legalization of weapons for civilians. He emphasized that such a move would lead to more significant internal security problems rather than providing protection.
He reported this during his speech at the 18th Kyiv Security Forum.
Budanov argued that the widespread distribution of firearms among the population has never worked as a security measure.
“I have always been against this, and I say it again: I am against simple legalization to hand out weapons to people. This has never worked and will not work now either,” he stated.
The Head of the Office warned that mass weapon ownership would likely increase the number of dangerous incidents.
Furthermore, Budanov highlighted a systemic issue regarding law enforcement in Ukraine. He noted that officers often hesitate to use weapons in the line of duty due to the fear of legal consequences. He argued that the state must protect its defenders to ensure they can perform their jobs effectively.
Status of Donetsk and Luhansk regions
During the forum, Budanov also addressed the situation in eastern Ukraine. He stated that the country has a specific solution regarding the Donetsk and Luhansk regions that will primarily satisfy Ukrainians. He made it clear that there will be no territorial concessions.
“The red line is simple and clear to everyone. First: we give nothing away. This will not happen. No matter who tries what. Regarding Donbas — we know a certain decision that will satisfy us first of all. And no one here has the right to trade land,” the Head of the Office emphasized.
Budanov added that internal unity is the key factor for the state’s survival. He believes that without social consolidation, external aid in the form of tanks and drones will lose its significance. He urged all Ukrainians to unite around the president to prevent a national catastrophe.
Previously, The Ukrainian Review reported that the US uses Ukrainian air defense technology to protect base in Saudi Arabia.
