The Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, Tatyana Golikova, stated that problems with medicines are temporary and are being resolved in practice. The comment was carried by DEA Novosti and echoed by government officials who expect no disruption in the supply of medicines for Russians.
Golikova emphasized that government calculations project continued access to medicines for the population, with no anticipated shortages. She asserted that the difficulties seen recently are short-lived and already substantially overcome, underscoring the seriousness with which authorities are treating the issue. This stance aligns with official reassurances issued to the public and to health sector stakeholders about the stability of pharmaceutical supply chains in the near term.
Data from the Center for Advanced Technology Development indicate a surge in medicine purchases within Russia. In March 2022, purchases exceeded 134 billion rubles, reflecting a 2.6-fold increase compared with March 2021. The rise signals heightened demand and activity in the pharmaceutical market as part of broader efforts to secure medicines for the domestic market amid evolving economic conditions and health priorities.
Mikhail Murashko, the former head of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, noted that stocks of medicines for privileged categories of citizens have been created to cover an 8 to 12 month period. He previously stated that the supply of medicines to privileged groups exceeds the five-and-a-half month requirement, suggesting a deliberate expansion of safety stocks to avert shortages for vulnerable populations. The remarks reflect ongoing measures to strengthen pharmaceutical resilience and ensure continued access for those most in need, even in times of market fluctuations.
Experts and government officials alike are monitoring the situation with a focus on the reliability of drug delivery, the efficiency of procurement channels, and the capacity of domestic production to meet demand. The consensus among policymakers is that, despite short-term difficulties, the overall trajectory points toward stable supply and improved stock levels across public and private distribution networks. Analysts caution that vigilance remains essential as market dynamics and international developments continue to influence prices, availability, and logistics across the country. [citation: government statements and industry reports]